Beech Tree News Network

Veterans, County officials, and members of the community gathered on the front lawn of the Butler County Courthouse to commemorate the adoption of the American flag. The Flag Day Ceremony started at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 14th, the 248th anniversary of the American Flag. The ceremony opened with Mrs. Gail Gaddie, BCDAR Flag Chairman. Ann Bartholomew, also with BCDAR, led the opening prayer. Coleman Colter, Green River Chapter CAR, led the Pledge to the U.S. flag. Harley Chapman, Green River CAR, sang the National Anthem. Mr. Steve Fuller, Mrs. Linda O'Driscoll, and Mr. Doug Odle spoke at the ceremony. 

Mr. Steve Fuller addressed the crowd and emphasized three main points: the history of the flag, what the flag represents, and the most glorious moment associated with the flag. He spoke about the many different versions of the American Flag before the one we fly today was commissioned in 1960. The flag has been proudly flown all over the United States for 65 years. He then began to discuss why we fly the flag: what does it represent? According to Mr. Fuller, the American flag stands for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. "The flag represents freedom more and more every day," states Mr. Fuller. It represents our God-given rights that no one can take away from us unless we interfere with someone else's rights. 

Lastly, Mr. Steve Fuller highlighted what he called the most glorious moment in American flag history—the Raid at Los Baños—and the events leading up to it.  Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States entered World War 2. American and Filipino troops were stationed in the Philippines with half-rations, causing widespread starvation and suffering for five months until the U.S. finally surrendered on April 9th, 1942. The Japanese captured them, and the Bataan Death March began. Nearly 75,000 Filipino and American soldiers were forced to march 65 miles through the heat with little food or water. An estimated 13,000-18,000 deaths occurred during the march. American soldiers, volunteer nurses, and civilians were put into Japanese war camps for 3 years. After 3 years, they "looked like concentration camp victims," said Mr. Fuller.

In February of 1945, U.S. forces were informed that the Japanese were planning to execute all prisoners on February 23rd. It was time to take action. General Douglas MacArthur sent the 11th Airborne Division to raid Los Baños and save the prisoners. Early morning of February 23rd, 1945, came, and at precisely 7:00 am, paratroopers jumped behind enemy lines while guerrillas attacked from the ground and scouts were inside, ensuring a smooth escape. The operation was successful. The Allied forces rescued every single prisoner. Mr. Fuller specifically called out the youngest prisoner, who was only 3 years old. She was so malnourished she fit inside a soldier's helmet. The raid at Los Baños is remembered as one of the most heroic rescues in military history, and to Mr. Fuller, it was the most glorious moment of the American Flag. 

Next, Mr. Douglas Odle took the podium. Doug Odle is a Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Army as a part of the 1st Armored Cavalry Division. In 1967, he was stationed in Chu Lai and Tam Ky, Vietnam, where he operated armored personnel carriers. Mr. Odle shared a personal story from his time in the service – he proudly flew the American flag on his armored personnel carrier, and his sergeant asked him to take it down because the enemy, known as "Charlie," could see it. He didn't care if the flag made him a target; he was determined to fly the flag regardless of the risk. He didn't care if it took him or his carrier out; he was going to fly the flag.  Mr. Odle also read "Ragged Old Flag" by Johnny Cash, a tribute that deeply reflected his unwavering patriotism.

Vietnam Veteran Douglas Odle standing beside his brick. 

Linda O'Driscoll, whose sons have both served in the U.S. Armed Forces, remembered Mike Hayes, who gave his life serving in Iraq 20 years ago.  Mr. Hayes was the Butler County High School Girls Soccer coach when he enlisted in 200 and joined the 617th Military Police.  His sacrifice was honored by the placement of a flag in the DAR Memorial Garden on the courthouse lawn. 

The ceremony concluded as everyone gathered at the DAR Memorial Garden, where a memorial stone in the shape of Kentucky is placed, along with a bench and a variety of flowers. This area was built with a $500 grant to celebrate 250 years of America. There will be multiple events celebrating the 150th anniversary of the American Flag. For more information, visit www.kentuckytourism.com