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The FAB 5 Learns Flag Etiquette

October 02, 2019

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Mr. Allen Tipton visited the fifth-grade students today to continue a tradition started by Coach Duane Crawford.  Coach Crawford, retired Marine and retired PC history teacher, believed nurturing students' patriotism was important at all ages.  Several years ago, Coach Crawford began teaching fifth-grade students how to properly fold and care for our flag.  He donated a flag to each classroom and charged the fifth graders with raising and lowering the flag each day.  At the end of the school year, a student from each classroom was chosen to receive the flag.  Students received the honor based on their demonstrated respect and patriotism.  Since Coach Crawford has passed away, Mr. Tipton has stepped in to continue to nurture students' patriotism.

Mr. Tipton spoke to the fifth graders about this project and how he came to be a part of it.  He explained the procedures that are followed when caring for and folding the flag.  He showed the students a video and then had some students practice folding and carrying the flag.  Then he took the students outside and demonstrated how to raise and lower the flag.  The fifth graders are now in charge of raising and lowering the flag at the elementary school, and they are excited about their duty.

Thank you to Coach Crawford and his family - Kay, Sandi, and Payne.  Although Duane and Kay are now deceased, their love for country and county remains and their influence crosses generations.  Coach would have smiled today as the students clapped when the flag reached the top of the pole.

Thank you, Mr. Tipton, for continuing the tradition.  The fifth-graders have promised to fulfill their duty with reverence and pride.