The Flag Flies Because Of Volunteers

To the Editor:

First of all, I would like to inform those that don’t know and remind those that do know, that the historic Main Street flagpole is maintained solely by donations and volunteers.

Throughout the year the Newtown Hook and Ladder firemen and women are there when needed to raise and lower the flags that we fly. The Newtown Lions Club, each year, always donates the 20- by 30-foot American summer flag, which is normally flown from May until November. Mike from the Newtown Hardware Store has for several years donated the 12- by 18-foot American winter flags that are flown the rest of the year.

I would like to make special mention that the flag flying presently, which was put up in November 2010, was donated in memorial for Navy Seal Jason D. Lewis, a native of Brookfield, who was killed in Baghdad, during a combat mission, on July 6, 2007. The donor wishes to remain anonymous. When the flag is taken down it will be presented to his family.

Lastly, I would like to extend my gratitude to the folks that have contributed this past year and to the many, many that have contributed since I started taking care of the flagpole in 1983. Your donations have maintained its splendor for the many thousands of people that pass by every day.

Thank you all,

David Lydem

Retired Newtown Police Lieutenant

(Unofficial Keeper of the Flagpole)

75 George’s Hill Road, Newtown                              February 2, 2011