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Submitted
From left, Dwight McClure and Mitchell Shields mixes cement.
One of the goals for each Post in the American Legion is to make a positive difference in their community. George Lee Post 532 is in Clay County, which happens to have one of the smaller populations in the state. Numbers do not indicate action or ability, it just means you do more with less.
Over the last several years Post 532 has developed a “Can do character” in Clay County. Because of that characteristic Post Commander Joe Buckner was asked if the Post would be interested in repairing the flagpole at Clay County Senior Center. After confirming that “Old Glories” flagpole was leaning significantly and defiantly needed repairing, Post 532 accepted the project. The condition of the flagpole foundation necessitated relocating the foundation for the flagpole.
Buckner coordinated the work dates and arrangements were made for material and equipment. Cost of materials were shared between Clay County and donations from individuals. Equipment for lifting the flagpole was provided by Post member Tommy Hooper and cement mixer by another Post member.
With any renovation project it takes everyone willingly to give their time and skills. Post members Buckner, Hooper, Jack Greve, Dwight McClure, Rondall Brown and Mitchell Shields filled the ranks for this project. The new site was selected, a hole was dug, foundation form completed and cement mixed and poured. Then the supervisors and workers watched the cement dry.
Hooper brought his tractor with a front-end loader to lift the old pole out of the ground.
It took a little work with a jackhammer to remove the old cement to prepare “Old Glories” arm for the new foundation. After removing the old cement, the flagpole was ready to stand tall in its new location, for many more years. Go by and see the completed job. Clay County, thanks for your confidence in and support of your veterans, American Legion Post 532 continues to serve veterans, their families and community.