According to affiliate WWLP, a flagpole that stood tall outside of an assisted living and rehabilitation in Wilbraham was knocked over during the winter, but a disabled veteran stood outside of the facility, holding the flag upright for nine and a half hours.
Army Specialist Darren Swallow voluntarily stood outside of the Wingate of Wilbraham facility,on Monday, holding the American flag that had been previously knocked over.
Swallow, a veteran who is disabled after multiple tours in Iraq, arrived at the facility at 3:30 a.m. and stood there holding the flag until 1 p.m.
Swallow said, "My girlfriend told me yesterday the flagpole behind us was taken down either during a storm or from a plow truck, so I thought I'd come down and honor our veterans, and let them know they have not been forgotten."
Anara Dupont, Swallow's girlfriend, said, "He was very passionate about it when I told him we didn't have a flag here, he is an angel, he is, really is one of the best people I've ever met in my whole life."
Visitors, residents and employees of Wingate were all so moved by Swallow's act. Susan Huart, an employee of Wingate has two children and a son-in-law in the service. She said, "Pride. I mean it's a feel good story, he's celebrating the veterans because we didn't have a flagpole, and he came to celebrate the veterans everywhere."
"Absolutely inspired, we came here just to thank him for his service. It's phenomenal that he's standing out here for the residents and for our country," said Chris White.
Massachusetts
The latest news from around the state
Memorial Day is a day to honor all Americans who died in military service for our country, and Swallow's patriotic act was an inspirational tribute.
