First Sgt. Michael E. Malone raised over Bullard High School a flag flown over a (Banner Staff Photo by Don Treul) base in Iraq. Malone presented the flag Wednesday, Sept. 2. The Bullard High School Band was not practicing for the first football game of the season early Wednesday, Sept. 2, as band members marched into the parking lot in front of the campus.

After the band played “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and other music, First Sgt. Michael Malone presented a special flag to Bullard High School.

The flag had first flown over a base in Iraq and is now atop a mast at the high school. Principal Scott Franks accepted the gift and Malone hoisted the flag to its new location during the ceremony.

Malone also presented Franks with a certificate during the ceremony:

“This flag was proudly flown over the headquarters of Company A, 636th BSB at Contingency Operating Base, Adder, Iraq, on 24 May 2009 while the unit was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 09-11.

It is presented with grateful affection to: Bullard High School and symbolizes the support of the United States of America to the Republic of Iraq in its pursuit of freedom and democracy; and our continued efforts in the global war on terrorism.”

Malone’s daughter, Maddison Malone, is a sophomore at Bullard High School, and she informed her father of the high school’s need for a new flag. Her request was fulfilled.