Homeless Veterans Flags – Wilmington, Delaware

Driving along Route 202 on Concord Pike in Wilmington, Delaware in November 2016, I noticed a lone man standing in a normally-empty field, surrounded by dozens of American flags. It was a windy day. I rolled down my window as I inched along, which allowed me to hear the flags all flapping and whacking in the strong Fall wind. The scene reminded me of a group of young soldiers gathered proudly in line to serve their country. The sound of the waving flags seemed to mimic the click-clack of boots smacking together as soliders bring their feet to attention at the command of an officer.

I pulled into a nearby parking lot walked toward the field with my Canon 80D, approaching the lone man, who was busy adjusting a large spotlight onto the vast field of flags, all while the sun was hurriedly setting in the cool autumn sky. Hi, I’m Jim McBride,” the man said, and I immediately recognized him as the co-owner of our area’s premiere heating company. Jim explained that he was helping to prepare for a Flag Dedication Ceremony – in support of the Delaware Center for Homeless Veterans and Suiting Warriors.

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” -Winston Churchill

It was a lovely moment, witnessing a busy, successful local businessperson taking personal time to create such a beautiful tribute of patriotism, respect, art and community support. Jim’s quiet contribution amplified loudly in my heart.