Vince Brandtner from Roanoke ELKS, left, and Russ Teffner, right, from John M. Okey and Son in Salem.
ELKS Roanoke Lodge 197 had its flag retirement on May 22 where over 80 worn and unserviceable flags were retired. Approximately 40 people were in attendance.
“This was a great job by our officers, Matt Wynn, Jennifer Saunders, Matt Webb, Tony Koliba, Tom Hensley, and Stephen Brandtner,” said member Vince Brandtner. “Our volunteer flag folders were Vicki and Jon Halferty, Kellie and Berkley Stapperfenne, Elizabeth Anderson, Joe Handerhan and Stephen Brandtner.”
The flags were taken to Oakey’s Crematory for the purpose of draping veteran coffins with an American flag they served.
Special thanks also to Donna Kester who brought a flag belonging to her cousin Major General D. Hogan a VMI Alum and Air Force Pilot who recently passed away at the age of 77. A special thanks also goes to John M. Oakey & Son Crematory for letting these flags perform one more duty.