On Veterans Day, Amvets Post 18 held a ceremony for those who served honorably in the United States military. At the end of the ceremony, Wolf Scouts Troop 205 was taught how to properly fold the American flag and everything our country’s flag stands for.

Amvets Post 18 executive board member George Podlaha led the ceremony. Podlaha welcomed the Wolf Scouts, stating that it was an honor to have young people such as themselves involved in these types of events because they are the future of America. The national anthem was played while attendees sang along patriotically.

Barbara Chapman, president of the Amvets Ladies Auxiliary Department, shared a few words. She thanked all the veterans for their service and their sacrifice, and thanked everyone in attendance for coming. All of the veterans were each given an American flag drawing made by the Wolf Scouts as a way to thank them for their service.

The American flag was an important aspect of this Veterans Day ceremony. Podlaha walked over to the American flag that happened to be directly across from where the Wolf Scouts were sitting.

While grasping the flag, he said, “Obviously, it is a cloth, okay, but it’s a symbol, and we don’t destroy our symbol. For some reason, people burn it, but it’s kind of saddening for veterans and for people who love their country. This is a symbol of our freedom. There are even songs about this flag.”

He encourages the Scouts to have pride in the American flag and to make sure they respect and honor the flag, too.

Everyone moved towards a table that had the American flag laid out, which was intended to replicate the flag being draped over a casket. Podlaha slowly folded the flag; each movement has a special meaning, which reflects the spiritual roots of the United States.

At the end of the flag-folding ceremony, the Wolf Scouts took a photo with the flag, and lunch was served.