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Still standing for veterans

Crumbling flagpole is being replaced by American Legion Post

-Photo by The Gowrie News
Shannon Crouse, of Crouse Brothers Masonry, replaces the block around the existing flagpole at Reading Township Cemetery in Farnhamville. American Legion Post 510 has been trying for more than five years to replace the decades-old crumbling flagpole base.

FARNHAMVILLE — For generations, a flag has waved over Reading Township Cemetery as a quiet guardian for all of the veterans interred on the grounds. But the base of that flagpole has been crumbling for years due to time and weather.

Mike Ewing, commander for American Legion Post 510, said he isn’t sure how old the base is, but he’s been trying to have it rebuilt for more than five years. However, multiple contractors have looked at the base and taken measurements, but none returned.

“Crouse Brothers Masonry from Gowrie is working on the flagpole this week,” said Ewing. “They tore down the base on Monday and are beginning to lay block today. The hope is to have the base done by later this week.”

Ewing and members of American Legion Post 510 are asking for community donations to help offset the cost of rebuilding the flagpole. They are also hosting a soup supper on Thursday with all proceeds going toward repairs.

“The flag that flies is for all veterans that are interred there as well as their families,” said Ewing. “It honors their service.”

Donations for the flagpole can also be mailed to American Legion Post 510, PO Box 294, Farnhamville, IA 50538 with “flagpole” written in the memo.


How to help

A soup supper will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at the American Legion, 251 Garfield Ave. in Farnhamville. Free will donations will be accepted.

A variety of soups and desserts will be served.

Carryouts will be available by request.

Donations for the flagpole can also be mailed to American Legion Post 510, PO Box 294, Farnhamville, IA 50538 with flagpole written in the memo.

Starting at $4.94/week.

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