America dedicates each June 14th to Flag Day, a celebration of the day the Second Continental Congress adopted the flag of the United States. At Rittenhouse Village at Portage, celebrating this holiday in a patriotic way is always important. This year was no exception with a special service by five generations of Robert and Betty Johnson’s family.
As residents of Rittenhouse Village at Portage, Robert and Betty believed it important to educate people on the importance of the flag and what it represents. Robert first learned the flag folding ceremony while serving in the Army and began conducting flag raising ceremonies at the care facility while his great-grandson was still in the JROTC at Portage High School. He continues these ceremonies to this day, though his great-grandson now joins him as Lance Corporal Andrew Jones.
During the ceremony, which Lance Corporal Jones was able to attend while on leave from Okinawa, Japan, the family was certain to educate those in attendance.
“Many people have no idea that every fold means something,” Betty said.
As Robert and his great-grandson folded the flag, the meanings of each fold were read aloud. Residents watched in appreciation as the flag was folded in front of them. For many residents it is difficult to attend patriotic events out in their community. By having events at the facility, they are able to participate more often and ensure an accommodating event.
Rittenhouse Village at Portage isn’t the only location to have enjoyed flag ceremonies by Robert during his lifetime. He served on the Lake Station Volunteer Fire Department from 1949 until 1985 and often offered flag raising ceremonies for them. He also traveled to local schools to do presentations educating students on the flag ceremony.
For the residents of Rittenhouse Village at Portage, this event was one way for them to show their patriotism and support for their country without leaving the comfort of their home. The Johnson family remains close-knit and involved, and is happy to provide these services to the community.