A national organization that aims to help families of deceased veterans will be hosting a special presentation tomorrow in Manitowoc.
Honor and Remember was created by George Lutz after his son died in Fallujah Iraq in 2005.
Since then, the group has been hand-crafting flags, and delivering them to the families of fallen Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, and Seamen around the country.
Joe Molnar, who is a volunteer ambassador for the organization told Seehafer News that since its inception, the group has been pushing for the flag to be adopted by state governments as a symbol of remembrance.
“It’s now been adopted in 26 maybe 276 states around the country,” he said. “We are working on it being a national symbol of remembrance. That’s George’s ultimate goal.”
Molnar explained that in order for a family to be eligible for a personalized flag, their loved one had to die as a result of military service.
“So it’s killed in action, training actions, PTSD/suicide, Agent Orange, cancer, on leave, whatever the case may be,” he explained. “If the family wants a symbol of remembrance…they get one. It’s a hand-stitched flag,” which included their fallen loved one’s name.
The flag is comprised of six parts, which each carry a significant meaning.
Jenny Matte of the Patriot Riders of America, Wisconsin Chapter 2 says while her organization is pretty new, their goal is very similar to that of Honor and Remember.
“Our job is to focus on veterans, active military in our communities,” she explained. “We want to make sure that they are taken care of; they have what they need.”
The two organizations will be holding a special presentation Saturday, December 17th at the Chiefs Club on Clay Pit Road.
The doors will open at 1:00, and the public is invited to attend to learn more about both organizations and speak with members.
