War Veterans of Marco Carry On Flag Tradition

Since 2018 the men who made up the VFW Post 6370 on Marco Island became the unfortunate victims of the consolidation of their Post with one in Golden Gate VFW Post. They’ve continued with the proud tradition of selling American-made flags here in the United States for residents looking to replace their older flags.

It was understandable that many chose to not make the 50-mile round trip drive in the evenings to attend meetings in Golden Gate. Many of their members were World War II Veterans, the Korean War Conflict, in addition to Vietnam and the various other conflicts since 9-11.  At one time, the Post proudly boasted 100 members or more.   

The group didn’t want to lose the comradery they shared, so later in 2018 they began a separate organization which was incorporated as the War Veterans of Marco Island. The group is open to any male or female member of the armed forces, so long as they saw service in a war, campaign, expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters.

That is a distinction between the American Legion and VFW Posts. VFW members must have served in a combat theater. Many of the former Marco VFW members belonged to both Posts, prior to the changes brought about in 2018.

The new group has carried on the tradition of selling American flags, which is a source of funding for assistance to veterans in need. That tradition is being carried on, as is the management of drop off points for old flags needing to be retired in a respectful manner.

“As we approach Memorial Day, we wanted to remind residents where they can obtain an American-made U.S. flag,” said local veteran and organizer of the local veteran’s group David Gardner. “It makes me proud to see so many flags displayed during these important holidays each year as we salute our veterans,” said Gardner. 

One of those points for collection of old flags has been on Park Avenue near the Blue Star Memorial at Veterans Community Park.  However, due to the construction at Veterans Community Park, it has been temporarily removed and will be replaced after construction is completed later this fall. The other active receptacle can be found in the parking lot and driveway at Marco Island City Hall.

The flags sold by the War Veterans of Marco Island are all made in the United States and can be obtained by calling their Flag Officer David Gardner at 239-289-5862. All proceeds go to supporting veterans’ needs and is a 501-C3 not for profit organization.