Each year my father raised an old flag, its threads frayed with time. I’d wondered why he did this. Mostly, he proudly flew a flag unweathered by time, replaced with a new when needed.
I remember so well when I was ten, “Daddy, why do raise that flag each year? The new ones look prettier.”
He sat me down and explained he now thought me old enough to understand. He spoke of comradeship, sacrifice and loss and the part the old flag played.
My father long passed, each year I raise a special flag and remember those who came before.
This is the graphic from the Saturday Centus writing challenge.
Ross's Writing Blog 
edenhousenews
July 3, 2013 at 02:54
Brilliant
Ross Mannell
July 14, 2013 at 06:47
Thanks for the comment.
The sentiments can work for many nations.
Jenny Matlock
July 20, 2013 at 02:03
Oh.
My.
These words are so humbling.
Not matter what color the flag is.
No matter what country it flies over.
Just beautiful writing Ross!
Ross Mannell
July 20, 2013 at 06:53
Thanks for the comment.
For Australia, we have ANZAC Day (April 25) and Remembrance Day (November 11). A lesser used blog of mine aims at sharing with local schools. It gives information about our 2013 ANZAC Day.
http://rossmannell.edublogs.org/2013/04/29/anzac-day-2013-in-the-bega-valley-shire/