Patriotism: the dictionary definition is “the quality of being patriotic, to vigorously support one’s country.”
Some may say patriotism dead, but not in the case of Lisa Krussow, who takes gleaming pride in our country by assembling American flags with a card and ribbon attached.
The idea came to her in May of this year. She explains it this way, “I love the USA, I love America. I love the USA flag and what it stands for. And, I appreciate the veterans for standing up for America and the flag.”
The idea was to get a card and ribbon and attach it to a small American flag and distribute them in the community. Krussow said, “I enjoy the project.”
Art Wernert is one of Lisa’s handy helpers who has provided some financial backing. He is 75 years old and a Vietnam veteran.
The flags cost about 66 cents each and come from the Dixie Flag Company. The ribbons are a crossover bow of blue ribbon with white stars. The ribbon was found at Hobby Lobby and is glued to the wooden flag pole.
Katherine Wagers helps by cutting the ribbons on a template she made out of cardboard.
The card for this project was printed through Salem Leader Publishing of Salem, Inc. There are several versions of the cards, but always on the front is the “Pledge of Allegiance.” On the back of some is the “Preamble of the Constitution.” When asked what the flag costs she said, “I didn’t worry about the cost.” Adding up the cost of the items, it probably comes to about $1 each.
The first group to receive the flags was Bradie Shrum Elementary School. She made contact with teacher Andrea Gorman and gave her 600 flags for distribution.
Krussow distributed the flags to the Charlestown American Legion, friends, New Albany American Legion, and on the square in Charlestown at the Saturday Market. Plus, she distributed flags at different stops along the way, like gas stations. She is not affiliated the the DAV or American Legion groups.
Her goal is to “Try to encourage people to be kind and loving to each other. The flags are fun to handout”.
Lisa lives in Starlight and is an independent broker of health and Medicare insurance.
To specifically provide funds for the making and distribution of the flags with the “Pledge of Allegiance” and/or the “Preamble” cards attached, donations can be sent to Lisa Krussow, P.O. Box 17, Sellersburg, IN 47172.
Donations may also be sent to Disabled American Veterans or to the local American Legion. The American Legion has a Flag Education program and committee.
Art Wernert (left) and Lisa Krussow display the latest batch of flags and cards they assembled.
Katherine Wagers (left) cuts the ribbons for the flags.
A lot of hours went into creating the flags and cards that are distributed throughout southern Indiana.
Art Wernert is on his way to distribute these reminders of pride in our country.