By Morgan Bryce
Associate Editor
Residents of Opelika’s Timothy Manor came together last Friday for the dedication of a new flagpole at their facility.
Installed by Flags for Vets, an area nonprofit that donates and erects flagpoles for veterans nationwide, the new flagpole is a great way to commemorate a soldier’s service and patriotism, according to Community Director Barbara Wakefield.
“I think it’s wonderful. When I sent out the letter about this, they (facility veterans) all responded immediately,” Wakefield said. “It’s pretty awesome.”
The ceremony began with an invocation and singing of the national anthem by Tenth Street Church of Christ Member Christine Gibson.
Local veteran Todd Rauch presented the flagpole on behalf of FFV Founder Jamie Popwell, who was unable to attend Friday.
“I’ve seen and helped Jamie put up dozens of flagpoles, and it wasn’t until (Popwell) gifted a flagpole to myself and for my service in the (U.S.) Army. He turned to me, shook my hand and he said, ‘Todd, this is for the sacrifice and dedication you gave for your country, and I just want to thank you for your service,’” Rauch said. “(And through that) I came to understand that what he does, what his mission is and how much it means to those other veterans.”
For more information, visit www.flagsforvets.com.