Winners announced in Legion’s ‘What the Flag means to Me’

CRESCO - Fifth graders Aliyah Lidtke, Gabe Gibbs, Kaelyn Darland and Cade Reis were recognized for writing winning essays on “What the American Flag means to Me.”

The essays were submitted to the district level, and Aliyah  took third place!

Cindy Yslas, American Legion #135 commander, explained how hard it was to choose. “There were 77 essays written and seven veterans read them. Do you know how hard it is to get seven veterans to agree on something?” she joked.

Each of the 70-plus posts in the district are allowed to choose one winner. Several years ago veteran Jim Perry said he decided to ask if Elma, Lime Springs and Protivin would be interested in helping to sponsor the contest. This allowed Howard County to submit four entries.

Each school, including Crestwood and Notre Dame in Cresco and Holy Trinity in Protivin submitted essays.

Yslas said she enjoys reading the essays. “We learn something new each year.”

Besides writing the essay, students were asked what flag could be flown above the stars and stripes? Most students answered none. Only one had the correct answer — The church flag. It’s only flown during services, when a Navy vessel is at sea.

Parents of the winning students were invited to the awards recognition. Each winner received some gifts and a certificate from the American Legion.

The teachers also received gifts for taking the time to work with students on the “What the American Flag means to Me.” This year, they were given special pens designed by Cheryl Bronner.

The contest is a win-win-win for teachers, students and the American Legion. It will definitely be held again next year.