It’s been one year since American Legion Post 211 Sergeant-at-Arms John Shondel introduced Operation Fly The Flag (OFTF) to the residents and businesses of Avon Lake.

The concept of Shondel—the city’s newest council member—was fairly simple: create an alert system so those responsible for displaying the United States flag know the protocol and etiquette surrounding the flag and its proper care and display including when and how to fly it. That might include when it should be at half-staff and how to properly dispose of Old Glory.

One year later, Shondel reflects on the campaign and said he would like to see more residents sign up.  

“The responses have generally been that of appreciation for the ‘correct’ information and a genuine willingness to comply with the OFTF alerts,” Shondel said.  

Shondel, a retired Green Beret, has created an e-mail contact list of 43 local government, schools, commercial and businesses and six residences with vertical poles.  

“I have been a little disappointed that the residents have not responded, but it probably is just not high enough on their personal priority checklist yet,” he said on April 5. “I think additional publicity and news coverage will help.  ‘You can lead the horse to water,’ but…”

Shondel is especially aware of homes that have poles, but have not yet signed up for Operation Fly The Flag. He also said this time of the year provides a good time to take stock of the condition of one’s flag.

“There are many private residences that have stand alone vertical flag poles that regularly fly the US Flag that are not on the OFTF alert email list,” Shondel said. “Spring is the time when we freshen up our homes from the effects of winter. Flags that fly year round often show the effects of rain, wind and snow about this time of the year.

“If it is worn, tattered or faded - replace it with a new one for spring. For proper disposal, drop it off at the Post - there is a white drop-box at the entrance or take it inside.”

Flags that are collected during the year are disposed of by burning aer a special Retreat Ceremony held at 5 p.m. on Flag Day, June 14, 2012 at the American Legion.

Residents and businesses that want to sign up for an OFTF alert can contact Shondel by e-mail at osujohn@mac.com or by postal service by sending your name, organization, address, telephone number to John Shondel, Sergeant-at-Arms, American Legion Post 211, 31972 Walker Road, Avon Lake, Ohio 44012-2045. Email reminders are BCC'd.