Disposal with dignity

About 60 people gathered at Jackson-Silver Legion Post 68 in Locke Mills Sunday for a Veterans’ Day observance. The Mahoosuc Community Band played patriotic songs and Post Commander Wayne Hakala gave the address. He asked those present to remember Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty, two former Navy SEALS who died in the September attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya. Hakala also stressed the importance of providing support for veterans long after they return home from service. After the observance, a firing squad fired a salute outside as Legion member Al Lake prepared to dispose of hundreds of old flags in the proper manner – by burning them. The Legion places flags each year on veterans’ graves In area cemeteries, then collects them for disposal. But, said Lake, many flags, of all sizes, are also dropped off with Legion members. “More people are aware of proper disposal today,” he said. Here, flags sit in boxes in the foreground as Lake places one in the fire.  Hakala said Monday that flags may also be dropped off at the Legion Hall or with the attendant at the Transfer Station in Greenwood.