Nearly 700 students and faculty gathered in front of Becker Middle School last Friday morning for a flag dedication ceremony held in conjunction with the Becker American Legion.

The ceremony began with BMS Assistant Principal Ted Aleckson welcoming students and staff and explaining details about the Federal Flag Code, which prescribes rules for handling and displaying the U.S. flag.

Legion Adjutant Mark Swanson then addressed the crowd, explaining the flag’s importance and purpose in helping to unite the citizenry of our country.

Next, Becker Elementary Assistant Principal Brandon Papenfuss, a United States Army Veteran, presided over the ceremonial transfer of the flag from BMS Principal Chantel Boyer to Becker American Legion Commander John Riebel.  

Papenfuss further instructed those in attendance of the importance of the colors of the flag, and explained how people should show appropriate respect and honor during the hoisting or lowering of the flag or when Old Glory is passing in a parade or review.

Swanson and Riebel then posted the colors, bringing the flag to its perch overlooking the front entrance of the building.  As the two legionnaires saluted the flag, Papenfuss put the final touches on the ceremony, leading the hundreds in attendance in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. 

“We want to thank Commander Riebel and Adjutant Swanson for joining us for this very important ceremony,” Boyer noted after the program. “The ceremony was an important step in our ongoing efforts to show our respect and appreciation for our community’s Veterans.”