Walking through the doorway of American Pride at 273 Greenwood Avenue in Bethel, it is clear that patriotism is sewn into the fabric of every design there.For more information about American Pride, visit its Facebook page by searching American Pride LLC, e-mail rgodfrey1@prodigy.net, or call 203-792-5300.

American Pride's primary service is lamp repairs and selling lamp shades, but it also specializes in supplying a broad range of patriotic gifts.

Husband and wife team Richard and Marie Godfrey, who have been married for more than 50 years, opened the store back in 2002.thank you

Over the past 15 years, American Pride has become a destination point for those looking to buy American-themed items, especially for occasions like Memorial Day, Father's Day, and the Fourth of July.

The couple's deep respect and support for the United States and its Armed Forces comes from a background strongly rooted in the military.

Growing up in Bethel, Mr Godfrey graduated from high school and enlisted right into the Marine Corps with friends. One of his brothers went on to join the Navy.

"Our son served seven years in the Air Force during Desert Storm," Mr Godfrey said.

Mrs Godfrey added, "And our first daughter was born on the Marine Corps birthday. Is that dedication?"

American Pride has products available that cater to every branch and division of the military that span all wars.

Items includes bumper stickers, lanyards, license plates, mugs, T-shirts, pins, patches, hats, magnets, flasks, wallets, belt buckles, medals, flagpole units, and flags of all sizes.

American Pride's assortment of merchandise marked with the iconic phrase "Don't tread on me" is among the most popular selections.

There are also patriotic flag pins that show the American flag alongside another country's flag, which are desirable items when someone becomes an American citizen and wants to show their pride for both countries.

All the pieces showcased in the store have been selected by Mr and Mrs Godfrey, but they also have the means to order specialty requests.

Mrs Godfrey explained, "We tell people, 'This is what we have, but if you are looking for something specific we have catalogs you can look at.'"

Ultimately, Mr and Mrs Godfrey are dedicated to providing the best products for those that visit American Pride.

They care about their customers and the community they serve - both go out of their way to give back to local groups like the Bethel Women's Shelter and remain very active in veterans organizations in Bethel.

When asked what the term American Pride means to them, Mr Godfrey said, "Marie and I are the American Pride. We are proud to be Americans and wanted to let everyone else know and to think about it for themselves. Our country is not perfect, but it is the only place we want to live."

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