Auburn VFW Post 1741 recently kicked off an Americanism program – “VFW Flags for Food Banks” – in surrounding communities where members live.

The Post 1741 will provide a free, new 3-by-5-foot American flag to replace a worn or tattered one of similar size within the jurisdiction of Post 1741.

VFW will retire the worn flag with dignity and honor. The recipient of the new flag is requested to make a monetary donation, whatever they can afford, to their nearest food bank in the name of Post 1741.

The program will do two primary things – reflect a sense of pride, respect and duty to the men and women serving in our Armed Forces to sustain freedom; and provide needed help to local food banks in economic hard times.

Post 1741 is asking the public’s help in contacting the VFW if a worn or tattered flag is spotted. Please contact Tony Dohse at tdohse@hotmail.com or Bill Peloza at wpeloza@aol.com with an address or location.

In other news, Post 1741 held its elections for the 2009-2010 year. The following officers take their positions July 1: Peloza, commander; Dohse, senior vice-commander; Mike Sepal, junior-vice commander; Phil McLaughlin; quartermaster; Ken Robinson, chaplain and Ernie Londino, service officer.