The City of Cullman recently purchased 50 U.S. flags to donate to Veterans of Foreign Wars 2214 for display throughout the city during patriotic holidays. The flags were purchased from the office of Congressman Robert Aderholt.

Mayor Woody Jacobs and Council President Garlan Gudger, Jr., on Thursday presented the flags to VFW Post Commander Jerry Willibey and VFW Director of Flags Van Hutchens.

“We really appreciate all that the City of Cullman does to help the VFW,” Willibey said.

VFW members place the flags alongside major highways in Cullman during patriotic holidays to honor both living and deceased veterans from the Cullman area. Motorists driving through town will notice the flags this Memorial Day weekend. The VFW also places miniature flags on the graves of veterans at cemeteries throughout Cullman each year during patriotic holidays.

“Today, VFW members and lots of volunteers helped us place flags on the graves of our local veterans,” Hutchens said. “We placed over 900 flags at the City Cemetery and Memory Gardens, and we appreciate all of those who came out to help us.”

Gudger recognized the VFW members for their service to the country and community. 

“I know it takes a great passion and dedication to serve our community in this way,” Gudger said. “The City of Cullman is honored to help. We thank you, Mr. Willibey and Mr. Hutchens, for working so hard to put these flags out for patriotic holidays throughout the year.”

“The flags placed by VFW members in cemeteries and alongside the highways are beautiful,” Jacobs said. “We also appreciate Congressman Aderholt and his staff for their assistance in helping us obtain these flags to donate to the VFW.”

The VFW has a “flag fund” to help replace old and worn flags. They accept donations, which can be sent to VFW Post 2214, 112 Veterans Drive Southwest, Cullman, Alabama 35055. All donations are tax deductible.