Local Students Recognized for Knowledge About the U.S. Flag

Amanda Murray, left, from St. Mary Central School in Martins Ferry won first place in the girls division and Wade Spears, right, won first place in the boys division for the 2024 Flag Program presented by Richard Smathers from the American Legion Post 228 in Powhatan Point. (Photo Provided)

Two students tested their knowledge about the United States flag and won first place in a flag program contest.

Richard Smathers from the American Legion Post 228 in Powhatan Point presented the 2024 Flag Program to the fourth grade at St. Mary’s Central School, which participated in the program that included the history of the American flag. The program was also offered to Powhatan Point Elementary School.

The program was to teach students about the history of the flag and proper display for students to start thinking about the freedoms they have in America — and what was given to ensure those freedoms.

Students prepared for about a month by reading and studying a comic book illustration that told a story of four individuals and why the flag is important to them. The students took a quiz with 20 questions and answered an essay question, which was used in the case of a tie.

Fourth grade student Amanda Murray won first place for the girls division, and fellow fourth grader Wade Spears won first place for the boys division. Both students received a plaque for their achievement.

The students will advance to the next level called the Post Competition. After the Post Competition, the highest scoring winner from the girls and boys division will advance to district level to be judged.

“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as the chairperson of the program this year,” Smathers said. “I met many students eager to learn.”

Smathers also presented Principal Theresa Young with an American flag and a monetary gift.

He believes that students must still be educated on the history of America to keep America great because it already is because of the characters of American people.

“Our forefathers showed us great courage to keep us free,” he said. “And we must always strive to follow in their footsteps.”