Ryan Sias, Cody Blum and Tyler Norsworthy raise a new flag at Whitwell Elementary as classmates and teachers sing the "Star Spangled Banner" Wednesday afternoon.

Thursday, March 16, 2000

Ryan Sias, Cody Blum and Tyler Norsworthy raise a new flag at Whitwell Elementary as classmates and teachers sing the "Star Spangled Banner" Wednesday afternoon. Disabled American Veterans members Ron McFann, Gilbert Long, Steve Saunders and Frank Pernestti presented the school with the flag because the old one was stolen at Christmastime last year. It was an honor for the DAV to present the flag to the students, because their request shows they care deeply about this country, McFann said. DAV members Saunders and Pernestti received a special treat during the flagraising. Their grandsons – Ron Summers and Joshua Copley, respectively – were on hand to watch the veterans salute as students raised the flag.