Veterans Start Flag Exchange Program For Tattered Flags In Mid-Del Area

The American flag is our nation's symbol of freedom and justice.

“When I was in the military, overseas, I was always on the flag detail,” said military veteran Gary Helberg.

For as far back as he can remember, Helberg has always had a love for flags.

“We’d rush to grade school to be the one that got to put up the flag that day,” said Helberg.

From grade school to now an adult, Helberg never lost his passion for flags.

“So, this is the Army here, this is the Marine Corp,” said Helberg showing off his flag collection..

His collection is nothing short of impressive.

“This is George Washington’s field flag,” said Helberg.

Every flag properly hung for the honor it represents.

“It’s the respect and what it stands for,” said Helberg.

As flags fly on this day of independence, it is important that they are flown in the proper respect, especially here in Midwest City and Del City, where the military roots of Tinker Air Force Base run deep.

“A free nation, free opportunities, land of the free, home of the brave, all those things, that’s what it is supposed to be,” said Helberg.

For veterans like Gary, the respect of our nation’s flag is always something close to their heart.

“There are older folks in this town that see a tattered flag, when they drive by it they notice it, they might not say anything,” said Helberg.

So out of respect for those that have served Gary, and his group of veterans came together to help.

“Midwest City and Del City, we’ll have trade out locations where they can take in a flag,” said Helberg.

Regardless of military service or nonservice, tattered and faded flags will be exchanged.

“Nobody wants to disrespect the flag,” said Marc Thompson, Midwest City Ward 4 Council Member.

When the Midwest City Chamber of Commerce realized the condition of their flag, the group of veterans stepped right in.

“They didn’t want to have a bad representation in front of their building, and they were happy that somebody had come along and solved that problem for them,” said Thompson.

“Veterans or disable veterans, or needy veterans, we’re going to put up a pole for you and a flag,” said Helberg.

Tattered flags will be properly disposed of. The service is only available to any Midwest City or Del City residents, proof of residency must be presented for the exchange. There are currently two drop off locations.

Midwest City: Alray’s Valet Cleaners and Laundry at Southeast 15th and Key

Del City: Arrowhead Archery and Pro Shop at 3104 Epperly Drive.