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South Elgin fifth-graders get lesson on flag

Fifth-graders at Willard Elementary School in South Elgin got a chance to hear and see a bit of the history of the American flag Friday.

Jim Mertz and John White of Algonquin-Lake in the Hills American Legion Post 1231 gave an hourlong presentation to the kids that featured some of the history of the flag as well as facts about its care and importance, how to raise and lower it, and a hands-on demonstration on the proper way to fold it. They passed out small flags to the kids as they answered questions throughout the program.

Mertz said he's been doing the presentation for 19 years. This was the first year he's done it at Willard.

"The one thing we have that best represents America is the flag," he told the kids as he explained why it, and the flags of all countries, should be respected.

Mertz and White showed about 16 flags throughout the program as they chronicled their evolution since the American Revolution.

  John White of the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills American Legion Post 1231 shows one of about 16 flags presented to show the history of the American flag to fifth-graders Friday at Willard Elementary School in South Elgin. White assisted Jim Mertz as they made an hourlong presentation about the history and importance of the flag along with plenty of fun facts. Rick West/rwest@dailyherald.com
  Jim Mertz of Algonquin enjoys teaching fifth-graders at Willard Elementary School about the history of the American flag Friday in South Elgin. Rick West/rwest@dailyherald.com
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