"Every soldier, sailor and Marine loves the American flag. It's what they fight for, it's what some die for. But as long as they're fighting overseas, members of American Legion Post 348 want those in uniform to have a flag of their own.

"That's why members of the post sat folding miniature flags Sunday. Each small folded triangle goes in a bag with a note that reads: "A flag for your pocket so you can always carry a little piece of home. We are praying for you and we are proud of you. Thank you for defending our country and our freedom."

"The idea to send the small flags came from an American Legion Ladies Auxiliary newsletter. Linda Hayes, Post 348's Ladies Auxiliary president, said she read about it and thought the Palmdale post could give it a shot. So on Sunday the back room of the American Legion was transformed into a workshop.

"Post Cmdr. Bobby Breech said getting extra help wasn't a problem. "We've got members coming in to watch the race or football game, so when the guys come in, we're going to throw a flag in front of them."

¶ Tuesday, October 04, 2005