Flags For Heroes Honors Family and Friends

The Noontime Rotary Club of Marco Island kicked off its fourth annual Flags For Heroes in coordination with the community’s recognition and celebration of President’s  Day on Monday, February 17 sharply at 5:00 PM. Linda and Alan Sandlin again co-chaired the event with Alan Sandlin serving as master of ceremonies. 

This year’s ceremony and display of flags would add a special recognition honoring the late President Jimmy Carter and take its place amongst the other 440 flags that honor so many other heroes being recognized by family, friends, and organizations. 

Alan Sandlin was proud to announce the Jimmy Carter Legacy Flags Display as a very special addition to their annual Flags for Heroes display. It served as a tribute to the enduring legacy of “The Man From Plains,” who exemplified the Rotary commitment to “Service Above Self.”  

The late president was an honorary Rotarian and lifelong champion of service. Carter exemplified Rotary’s core values of community improvement, humanitarian aid, and the pursuit of peace. His remarkable contributions, including his work with Habitat for Humanity and The Carter Center, have left an indelible mark on the world. 

The community’s law enforcement and fire/rescue personnel made their customary entrance to the applause of those in attendance.  

The Naples VFW Post 7721 Honor Guard presented the colors as attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance and joined in singing the StarSpangled Banner. 

As in the past, a specialflyoverwas performed by Retired Navy Commander Mick Thorstenson along with pilots Eric Marziali, Chuck McHenry, John Ringland, and Danny Richer would guide two World War II Trainers. 

As he has in the past, Craig Greuselclosed out the moving ceremony with a perfect rendition of Taps before Alan and Linda Sandlin thanked the many attendees for their presence and support for the Flags for Heroes Project and the good it does within the community. 

Many of those in attendance chose to walk through the many flags and view the medallions that recognized both the honoree and those choosing to honor a family member or friend in this special manner.