Star Staff Reports
On June 14, Abandoned Antiques hosted their annual Flag Day program, celebrating and commemorating the adoption of the American Flag by resolution of the second Continental Congress on this day in 1777.
Dozens gathered at the 8323 Highway 51 North location despite scattered thunderstorms. The program included two guest speakers- Shannon Bryant, who presented “Fun with Flags” and Frank Bradberry, who shared “Sea Stories (from the Sand Box) of Raising Old Glory,” along with a flag folding ceremony performed by the Military Women Across the Nation, Memphis Belles Unit 151, and a flag retirement ceremony by Kim Dougherty, River City Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
Following the event was a veterans appreciation luncheon, served by the Millington Central High School NJROTC cadets.
When not hard at work, the cadets also enjoyed visiting with the many veterans in attendance, learning firsthand about their service, our nation’s history and the importance of patriotism. John Abbott, a 102-year-old WWII veteran, enjoyed sharing his experiences with a rapt audience of cadets, as did Mr. Charlie Maddox, a Korean War veteran.
Members of the community, including Chris Thomas from the Millington Chamber of Commerce, and Antwane Bohannon, representing US Senator Marsha Blackburn, were joined by local veterans from many organizations, including the Tipton Jeepers. The event and luncheon were sponsored by Abandoned Antiques, Tiger Realty, River City Chapter, NSDAR of Millington, Military Women Across the Nation, Memphis Belles Unit 151, Muddy River Rifles Living History Organization, VFW-North Shelby, Post 7175, Milano’s Pizza, and Scooters Coffee.
