By Charlotte Boynton
The Bradford-Sortwell-Wright American Legion Post 54, of Wiscasset, received their first donation toward their American Flag project from Wiscasset residents Richard and Jeannette Hanson.
Wiscasset American Legion Post receives its first donation to the Legion American Flag project from Jeanette and Richard Hanson (far right). The project goal is to place an American Flag on every utility pole in Wiscasset. The Hansons presented a check of $400 to purchase eight American flags to Legion Commander William Cossette Monday evening at the Post home. First Vice Commander of District 7, and Post First Vice Commander James Seigars looks on (left). (Charlotte Boynton photo) |
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This past January, American Legion Post Commander William Cossette told the Wiscasset Selectmen the local Legion Post would like to place flags on utility poles from Memorial Day to Veterans’ Day on Routes 1 and 27, with the funds to purchase the flags to be raised from donations.
When Hanson heard about the proposed project he talked with his wife about making a donation to the project, to which she agreed. Hanson said he called Cossette and told him when the Post was ready to accept donations to let him know because they would donate enough to buy four flags.
Because agreements are required between the Town of Wiscasset, Central Maine Power Co., and FairPoint Communications, with an additional contract review by the Maine Municipal Association, the project did not receive approval by the board of selectmen until March 18.
Cossette, remembering what Hanson had said in January, called and let him know the project is approved, and the Legion was moving forward in accepting donations.
Much to the surprise of Cossette, the Hansons increased their donation to eight flags instead of four. The presentation of $400 was made at the Post Home Monday evening by the Hansons.
Although Richard Hanson is not a veteran himself, he said he had a brother, Millard, who served in World War II, and another brother, Gerard, who served in the Air Force.
Jeannette Hanson’s father, Roscoe Woodman, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and once served the Damariscotta Legion Post Commander.
Cossette said Monday, the flags will cost between $45 to $50 each, according to how many they order at a time. The goal is to raise enough money to purchase a minimum of 100 American Flags, all of which are to be made in the United States.
“We will be asking the business owners in town to purchase one flag,” Cossette said. “If every business owner donates one flag, we will be all set.”
Donations will also be accepted from individuals, the Town of Wiscasset, and the Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce, according to Cossette. The Post Commander realizes they may not raise enough this year to put a flag on every pole, but is hopeful that before Memorial Day 2015, enough donations will allow accomplishing the goal.
The proposal asks for flags displayed on Route 27 from the Dresden/Wiscasset townline to the Wiscasset Municipal Building, and from the Davey’s Bridge to the Woolwich/Wiscasset townline on Route 1.
The flags will be placed on the poles by volunteers from the Wiscasset Fire Department about 10 feet from the ground.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the American Legion Flag project may sent their donations to the American Legion, P.O. Box 214, Wiscasset, 04578, specifying the donation is for the flag project.
The Bradford-Sortwell-Wright American Legion Post 54 has been part of Wiscasset since 1919.
