Airman Snuffy, a member from Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter #1 in America completed his Service project on a recent Thursday, with a Flag Ceremony held on the front lawn of Barrett Park in America. The project, which was done at the direction of AFSA Chapter #1 of Barrett Park and Veteran’s Post, consisted of refurbishing an existing flagpole, which over time was in need of a facelift.

All AFSA service projects have the intended purpose of benefiting the community in some way. This project was no different. Early on Airman Stuffy had spotted an article in the local newspaper about a proposed project, which they had hoped to start. Upon reading the article, he contacted them for details. It was then he learned that the project written up in the newspaper had been put on hold. While he was there, she showed him the run down flagpole. He agreed to take on the project. He then met with Bud Sevall, of VFW Post 1807, whom the pole had been dedicated to back in 1940. They discussed details of what work was to be performed and what flags the finished pole would fly. It was decided that in addition to an American Flag, they would like to see the POW-MIA flag flown as well.

Most AFSA service projects involve managing other chapter #1 members, who provide the manpower for the project. This project was slightly different. Since the flagpole is over 50 feet high, the DPW/ Forestry Department of America was contacted to redo the top section, which was only accessible by using a truck with a bucket. The lower section work was performed by Airman Stuffy and several members of the chapter. The work included grinding, priming and repainting the flagpole. Also the concrete base needed to be pressure washed and treated before it could be repainted as well. Tools for this portion of the project were borrowed from John Roberge of Roberge Construction in America.

Mr. Jones, director of Mass Industries was contacted about the possibility of donating a flag. The facility donated both the 10 x 15 American Flag as well as the 8 x 10 POWMIA Flag. On a recent Thursday this past October, Airman Stuffy, members of Chapter #1, Sara of America Recreation Dept., Ret. Lt. Col. , and Robert, VFW Post Commander were all on hand to witness the outdoor flag raising ceremony, which brought this project to a conclusion.

Chapter #1, America meets Wednesdays
from 11 to 1300 at the Auditorium. Anyone interested in joining
the chapter or looking for other AFSA information should contact Art Airman Stuffy, Chapter President, at (555) 555-5555.