Last week I had the honor of receiving an assignment from a national magazine to photograph two Veterans for an article on honoring the American Flag. Charles Bennett and Travis Hill peacefully protested the display of the American Flag on the floor of a hallway in a university. Hundreds of American Flags were laid on the floor of the University’s Student Center as part of a graduate student’s experiment to see who would walk on, or around the flag.
Mr. Bennett, Travis Hill and numerous other members of the greater university community protested the use of the flag in this way. At first they picked up the flags, but were told that they were not allowed to do that. As a last resort, they peacefully stood in front of one of the American Flags, arms folded, ensuring that at least One American Flag did not get walked on.
I was incredibly impressed by these guys. No matter where we all stand on this war, this administration or even the use of the American Flag… I admire people who stand up for what they believe in, and do it in a compassionate and peaceful manner. During the photo shoot, I learned that they both had gone to war for this country, putting their own lives in jeopardy to protect our freedoms. The flag is a symbol of that sacrifice and of their fellow soldiers who never returned home.
It was an incredible reminder for me that I could never be enjoying my family this Memorial Day without the tradition of sacrifice embodied by these two guys. To all those families out there who have made that sacrifice… thank you!
Pat - Thanks Brian for your great blog and a wonderful reminder of what Memorial Day is truly all about. These photos are really stunning. I appreciate the mini education and thought provoking discussions you bring up!
-pat
William - This is really cool Bri. What an interesting assignment.
Anonymous - I came across this post today while searching online for something else entirely, and I’m glad I did. I don’t necessarily agree with this war we’re in, but that doesn’t remotely lessen my respect and admiration for all of the men and women putting their lives at risk and on hold to protect the rights of all of us here at home.
I appreciate this country, and everyone looking out for it. Thanks for sharing this story and your pictures. I can’t wait to look around the rest of your blog to see what else is here!
-A first time, but not last time visitor
Charles H. Bennett - Thanks Brian , and your wife for coming to Farmington, to do the pics. Both Travis and I
have said the same thing over and over , We did what and other Veteran would do, it was just our day that we happen to be there. And I’d like to thank everyone that has supported us and the American Legion. Have a good day, Charlie