A Morning Run and a Field of Heroes.

On my run this morning, I passed our local Rotary Flags for Heroes field where overnight winds had knocked 10–12 U.S. flags to the ground. 

Many of us were taught that if the flag touches the ground, it must be destroyed. But the U.S. Flag Code actually says otherwise: if the flag is still in good condition, the right response isn’t to burn it - it’s to raise it back up, clean it if needed, and continue displaying it with dignity. 

 A Dollar General ~200 yards away had a bright yellow hammer, and in less than 10 minutes rebar was secured and the flags were standing tall again. In a field dedicated to heroes, it felt meaningful.. In short the field’s message fulfilled its mission and came through for me — a quiet and simple reminder to pause and reflect. 

 A great way to start a great day.