As a gentle mid-day breeze nudged the American and the Oklahoma flags, Muskogee police officer Michael Lippmann slowly raised the two symbols up the flagpole in front of the Muskogee Civic Center.

The officer was in dress uniform, as were the three other police officers making up the special detachment.

A small group of citizens, veterans and city officials stood nearby to witness the event. The music of “The Star-Spangled Banner” echoed off the tall stone walls of the center.

Before the event began, two Muskogee men in attendance described what brought them out to the ceremony.

Jim Cathey, retired from the U.S. Air Force, said the re-installation of the pole and the flag raising was long overdue.

“When the civic center was redone, the comment that was made was ‘It doesn’t fit our plans,’” he said. “If it wasn’t for the flag, they wouldn’t have any plans.”

Cathey said emotions would be inspired by having the flags raised and visible from a long distance.

“It’s difficult to explain unless you’ve been through it,” he said. “Having the flag here will add some pride for veterans and non-veterans, too.”

Andy Ewing, a retired auto dealer, said the flag raising shows a lot of feelings for the people involved.

“I think it means a tremendous example of patriotism,” he said. “These city officials are showing respect for the flag.”

Ewing said the United States flag conveys a profound message.

“It represents the freedoms we as Americans enjoy and the service people fought and died for,” he said.

Reach Keith Purtell at 918-684-2925 or Click Here to Send Email