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By: Rebecca Miller

A few weeks ago, on June 8, 2019, at the Legion Riders Poker Run, a Blue Star Banner was presented to the family of Ashley Smith who is active in the U.S. Navy. Blue Star banners have been given out since the tradition began in 1917.

It was designed by Captain Robert L. Queisser, whose sons were serving on the front lines of World War II. Queisser had been a Captain in Ohio 5th Infantry, and his design caught the eye of the Governor of Ohio and the Mayor of Cleveland and was quickly adopted in the fall of 1917. At present the Department of Defense holds the patents and rules as to who can and cannot display it.

Wauseon residents, Bob and Lynn Smith received their Blue Star Banner from West Unity Post 669 American Legion Riders, who were formed in 2006 and chose as a cause or purpose for their group, the giving out of the Blue Star Banners.

Post 669 member Bob Clark, who joined the group in 2008, shared that the newly founded Legion Post had chosen Blue Star Banners as their cause, to further the support of active military and their families. Since they began, they have given out between 775 and 800 banners. Any family with someone who is active in the military during a time of conflict can receive one to be hung in the front window of the family home. “Anyone from 911 to current as we are still in conflict,” Clark explained.

The group also participates in many other military ceremonies and activities. For more information, call or text Blue Star Chairman, Bob Clark, at 419-262-0031. The American Legion Riders would be honored to present a Blue Star Banner, free of charge to be hung in a front window.

Rebecca can be reached at publisher@thevillagerporter.com.

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