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Photos: Gulfport Salutes 'Old Glory'

Gulfport gathered to salute "Old Glory" and properly retire several flags that could not longer be hung during a Flag Retirement Ceremony on Flag Day.

Boca Ciega Bay provided a picturesque view for the annual City of Gulfport Flag Day Ceremony on Thursday, June 14. Friends, families and city leaders gathered for a Retirement of the Flag Ceremony conducted by the American Legion Post 125. 80-year-old Victor Helou performed the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America during the ceremony. Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the United States Flag. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established June 14 as Flag Day but it wasn't until 1949 when Congress established National Flag Day that the day become as recognized as it is today.

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Photo Gallery: Flag Retirement Ceremony

Dozens gathered this Flag Day at Veteran's Park in Gulfport. The American Legion Post 125 performed a Flag Retirement Ceremony.

Boca Ciega Bay provided a picturesque view for the annual City of Gulfport Flag Day Ceremony. Friends, families and city leaders gathered for the Retirement of the Flag Ceremony conducted by the American Legion Post 125 The New Horizons Band performed several patriotic songs, Mayor Mike Yakes welcomed everyone to the ceremony and Victor Helou performed the Star Spangled Banner before the American Legion Post 125 retired several American flags. Post 125 Commander Vern Hunter and Color Guard Member Don Duffy lead the ceremony. Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the United States Flag. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established June 14 as Flag Day but it wasn't until 1949 when Congress established National Flag Day that the day become …

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Video: American Legion Memorial Day Ceremony

On Monday, May 30, 2011, people came together to honor veterans and remember those who died serving out country. Mayor Mike Yakes presented the proclamation. Watch our video to hear the presentation.

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Say 'Thank You' this Armed Forces Day

"Every time you see a person in uniform, thank them," 64-year-old Vietnam Veteran James said.

A talkative and friendly crowd filled the Andy Anderson American Legion Post 125 during lunch on Friday, May 20, 2011. Many patrons at the bar were career military members and served during various wars and conflicts. We asked those silent heroes what they think of military and veterans holidays such as Armed Forces Day, May 21, 2011, and Memorial Day, May 30, 2011. 73-year-old Paul Newman served his country for 40 years. Newman was in the United States Air Force for 21 years and the Navy Civil Service for 19 years. He joined the armed forces when he was 17 years old. He says veterans holidays mean a lot to him.  "I think it's nice to do that . . . appreciate everybody that's been in [the military]. . . . all of us that haven't been buried…

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