Arlington Hts. color guard honored to be of service

You will see them leading community parades. They carry the American flag, the American Legion flag, the POW flag — and, on occasion, the flags of all branches of U.S. military service — and are escorted by a rifle squad.

These dedicated veterans are members of the Post 208 color guard, who, as part of their activities as members of the American Legion in Arlington Heights, extend their volunteer service to include activities that honor our veterans and those currently serving at home and abroad.

Currently there are 20 veterans in Post 208 Color Guard, ranging in age from 35 to 86 and representing military service performed during World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm. Members present the nation’s colors at community events and at Post 208 activities.

According to color guard Cmdr. Gene Fehringer, being asked to represent the armed forces of the United States at public events is “something we all take great pride in doing.”

The post, he said, “reminds the public of the enormous commitment made by our country’s servicemen and women to protect our nation and our freedom.”

Over the years, the color guard has performed at schools, retirement homes, Arlington Park racetrack, and numerous area dedications and ceremonies.

Color guard members are regularly asked to honor a veteran at a wake, where they offer a brief service and present a Bible to the family.

The color guard is self-funded and does not charge for appearances. Members raise funds through an annual dinner/dance and through public donations that help cover the cost of uniforms, flags, Bibles and visits to Chicago area veteran’s hospitals.

The color guard will conduct a flag ceremony 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 27, at Harmony Park in Arlington Heights. It will march in the Memorial Day parade and present the colors at the ceremony honoring veterans at Veteran’s Park. On Flag Day, June 14, the guard will present the colors and offer a 21-gun salute at Post 208, 121 N. Douglas, Arlington Heights.

To learn more about all the activities of the American Legion Merle Guild Post 208, visit arlingtonheightsamericanlegion.org.