BLUE STAR … West Unity American Legion Riders are pictured before heading out to present a Blue Star Banner to the family of U.S. Marine Andrew Raye. Blue Star Banner Chairman Bob Clark also holds a Blue Star Banner that will soon receive a home.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
The West Unity American Legion Riders have once again presented a military family with a Blue Star Banner.
This banner was delivered on Sunday, September 10th to the family of U.S. Marine Andrew Raye who are currently living in Ottawa, Ohio.
A Blue Star Banner represents one member of the family that is currently serving the military in harm’s way. The flags can contain up to five stars, with each star signifying a family member.
Blue Star Banner Chairman Bob Clark explained that back in 2006 when the chapter was formed, it was decided a cause was needed in order to keep everyone together and busy.
The group chose to honor soldiers in numerous ways including but not limited to welcome homes, send-offs, blue star banners, flag lines, funeral lines, and more.
The amount of banners that are given out changes from year to year with a year prior seeing over 100 being given. This year has seen 15 banners given out thus far.
Mr. Clark explained that it makes him feel good to honor the soldiers currently serving the U.S. “It makes me feel good to honor them, guys. Being a Vietnam Vet, we didn’t get treated well.”
“All of us here are pretty much the same in that we aren’t ever going to let soldiers get treated like we did.”
The West Unity American Legion Riders are always looking for more military families who would like to receive a Blue Star Banner.
If you are a family who would like to receive one, or you know a family who might like one, you can reach out to the group by visiting their Facebook page.
Jacob can be reached at jacob@thevillagereporter.com