Seven years have passed since the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers of New York City, 60 years after the nation was stunned by the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor. How dare our freedoms be challenged by attacks from enemies across the vast oceans!

On Friday September 12th, Area Navy League President, Steve Kelly was joined by Navy Recruiting Station Cody, Wyoming RinC, Damage Controlman Chief Petty Officer Steve Dean, in presenting a U.S. Flag that had flown above the Battleship Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor to the students and staff of Pretty Eagle Catholic School in Saint Xavier, Montana.

Located on the Crow Indian Reservation, Kelly had been impressed with the initiatives of former students Cyle Old Elk, Austin McCleary, and Clinton Half to organize a Color Guard, replace the worn Flag that flew above the school and to instill pride among the students regarding the time-tested ideals of our great nation.

Kelly and Dean drove many hours to meet K-8 Principal, Garla Williamson, and to address the entire student body assembly. “The turbulent past that has shaped our nation holds many lessons. Our freedoms can never be taken for granted. Today we recognize the students of Pretty Eagle. You have demonstrated by your initiative and commitment to honor our flag, that you will be the future leaders of this nation.” stated Kelly.

Principal Williamson stated “I was proud to see the students give their undivided attention to his every word.  These students are near and dear to me and my heart swelled with pride to see them embrace an ideal larger than themselves”.

Chief Dean was then asked by the students who organized the school’s Color Guard to assist them in refining their presentation technique at the base of the flagstaff located adjacent the school’s main entrance.

This presentation in the State of Montana is an extension of Denver Council Navy League initiatives which, to date, have presented 15 Flags to the students of area schools. The goal is to promote a sense of patriotism and allow the students to hear the story of veterans, reserve and active duty Navy personnel who protect the hard won freedoms of our nation.

Story contributed by Dan Puleio, NRD Denver Public Affairs