NEW BETHLEHEM, Pa. (RVO) – In preparation for Redbank Valley Intermediate School’s ‘Visit with a Veteran’ program, fifth graders received a generous donation of ten American flags to learn the art of flag folding and proper flag etiquette. The flags were donated by Vietnam Veteran Ray Guntrum and New Bethlehem Mayor the Rev. Dr. Gordon V. Barrows, with support from the local American Legion Post 354.

Vietnam Veteran Raymond Guntrum & New Bethlehem Mayor Gordon Barrows Donate Flags to Redbank Valley School District

Mayor Barrows shared, “Mrs. Landers contacted my office about needing American flags so her fifth grade classes could learn to fold the flags properly and understand the flag code as part of the Veterans Day program. I reached out to Ray Guntrum and the American Legion Post 354, and within the hour, Ray had gathered all the necessary flags from local businesses. It’s inspiring to see the community come together for our kids.”

Redbank Valley School District – Intermediate School

Mrs. Kristen Landers, Barrows’s former high school teacher, accepted the donation alongside Principal Mrs. Sandy Shirey, both representing the Redbank Valley School District. Mrs. Landers noted, “These flags will provide a hands-on learning experience, teaching our students the importance of respect and patriotism. It’s an invaluable lesson, especially as we honor our veterans.”

Mrs. Shirey added, “Thank you to Ray Guntrum, Mayor Barrows, and the American Legion for their support of our students and for highlighting the historical significance of Veterans Day. Their contributions make a lasting impact on our children’s understanding of service and sacrifice.”

Ray Guntrum expressed his gratitude to be part of this effort, saying, “I was happy to make the donation on behalf of American Legion Post 354 and am glad to see these kids learning about the importance of our country. Seeing their smiles and hearing their ‘thank yous’ truly touched my heart.”

Redbank Valley School District – Intermediate School

Mayor Barrows extends his deepest appreciation to Ray, the local American Legion Post 354, and all the veterans in the New Bethlehem and Redbank Valley community who have served. “We are blessed to live in a town that values its veterans as they continue to serve their community.”

A special shoutout to the students representing RVIS’s fifth grade classes to receive the flags: Jace Hilliard, Heather Cruz, Gage Adams, Brandilynn Yearick, Dominick Gathers, and Jaylynn Abate. Your enthusiasm makes this program meaningful for everyone involved.

Thank you to Mrs. Landers and all our dedicated educators who continue to make a positive difference in the lives of young people. Your commitment to teaching respect, honor, and community pride is appreciated!

ABOUT:
Redbank Valley School District provides education services for the 165 square mile area of New Bethlehem and Hawthorn boroughs, and the townships of Mahoning, Madison, Porter, and Redbank of both Clarion and Armstrong counties.

MEETINGS:
The Redbank Valley School Board meetings the second Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm at the High School Library.

CONTACT:
For more information about the Redbank Valley School District, please call 814.275.2426 or visit RedbankValley.org/pg/biz/redbank-valley-school-district