Shannon Legion Displaying US Flags For Patriotic Holidays

Late this summer, the Shannon American Legion Boyle-Hoy Post 379, put United States flags up along IL Hwy 72 from the east end of Shannon until the intersection of Shannon Route. This was done by permanently installing pipes concreted in the ground along the grassy road side areas. The project was completed in time for the remembrance of 9-11, when flags were left up for a week.

The idea originated at a Legion meeting because other towns have done the same and it is inspiring and patriotic to see Old Glory welcoming and escorting people through town on special holidays such as Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, 9-11, and Veteran’s Day.

Our Legion post approved the work on a project to purchase and fly US flags on special occasions. In order to do this, contacts were made with Mayor Bonnie Foust, village maintenance, and state Dept. of Transportation for permission.

The project is being done in 2 phases. The 1st phase which was recently completed with the installation of 38 flag holders along the road. Phase 2 will occur next summer when the Legion post will decide the best way to install flags along the paved blocks uptown. (Courtesy of Ernie Johnson)

Legionnaires Ron Heckman (L) and Bernie Moen on their mission to line Hwy 72 with Old Glories.

Marine vet Roger Carson raised the Stars and Stripes at Casey’s on Rt. 72, recalling the USMC’s historic flag raising on Iwo Jima.