Eddie Mowen Jr. | The Register-Herald
EATON — The Preble County Republican Women’s Club group honored the American flag and its symbolism, during a special Flag Day ceremony at the Preble County Courthouse square on Friday, June 14.
Dedicated to the Blue Star Mothers, the ceremony included State Rep. Rodney Creech and highlighted the flag’s representation of freedom, honor, and justice.
Speakers shared poems, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Matthew Duffy, worship pastor for Eaton First Church of God, provided a prayer during the ceremony.
The symbolism of each fold of the flag was discussed, and the Blue Star Mothers organization was introduced, emphasizing the importance of supporting troops and families.
PCRWC’s Kathy Clapp welcomed everyone in attendance. “The Lord has blessed us with a beautiful, beautiful day to acknowledge the American flag, and while we’re here today, we’re also going to donate a folded flag to the Blue Star Mothers of America. So that’ll be an extra special thing today with a donation to their chapter as well,” she said.
“The American flag means so much to all of us. And, you know, as Republicans we agree on some things and we disagree on others. But one thing that we can always agree on is the pride for our flag and the pride for our country. And I’m very proud of that,” Creech said. “The American flag is an important icon to our country, and it has been for many years. There’s been a lot of changes over the years but no matter what it’s always had the same meaning and so it’s great to be here today.”
The flag donated to the Blue Star Mother’s was one recently flown at the Ohio Statehouse, according to Creech.
Blue Star Mother Laura Prater explained, “are mothers of active duty and honorably medically discharged veteran serving in the military, the guard or the reserves. Some of our children returned home with disabilities, while others made the ultimate sacrifice teaching us and our families about the cost of freedom that we enjoy. Some of our children are currently deployed during the hard jobs of keeping us safe. You don’t have to be a mother though to join our organization. We also recognize Blue Star dads, as well as other family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers as associate members. It is the goal of Blue Star Mothers to help you find a way to support the troops if you want to support our troops. We welcome your participation in our mission.”
For more information about the local Blue Star Mothers chapter, call 937-569-1737, or follow them on Facebook at Blue Star Mothers of America OH 11 Echo 1.
Reach Eddie Mowen Jr. at 937-683-4061 and follow on X @emowenjr.
