Flag bearer honored in ceremony

Local first responders salute young supporter who carries flag to and from school By John Rech

news@theeveningtimes. com A Marion Junior High student received accolades from firefighters and law enforcement agencies at school Thursday morning.

Emergency responders surrounded Luke Caldwell as his mother, Linda, looked on. Caldwell drew the attention in local social media as his picture circulated with him carrying a thin blue line and red line flag to school. He’d been making the trip north up the service road since mid-way through the first semester.

Crittenden County Sheriff Mike Allen presented recognition for the ninth-grader’s patriotism.

“He is an amazing kid,” said Allen afterwards. “He has been offered numerous rides to school but turns them down so he can march all the way with the flag. He has been bullied a bit by schoolmates who don’t understand his patriotism.”

Allen said the blue line on the flag honored law enforcement officers everywhere who the risk their lives daily.

“This means a lot especially with the police officers laying in the hospital right now from Forrest City after the Walmart shooting,” said Allen. “Luke has a tremendous spirit.” Marion Police Chief Gary Kelley presented a citation to the 15 year-old that included a proclamation making Luke part of the MPD team.

About two dozen officers and fire fighters surrounded Luke for the presentation ceremony, including uniformed representatives from the Crittenden County Sheriff Department, Marion Police and Fire departments, West Memphis Police, State Highway Police, State Troopers, and Marion school resource officers.

Linda Caldwell explained her son’s patriotism.

“He has an uncle serving in the military and wants to enter the military himself,” said his mom. “With all the controversy the last couple of years with police he wanted to make sure they know they are still respected. He will go out any time of day and walk and when he see a policeman he just stands there with his flag out of respect.”

The American Legion and VFW heard about Luke’s desire and planned on serving his family a symbol of respect for his military uncle, Michael Tackett, Jr. The groups will present the family a blue star flag next week.

According to Luke’s brother, Gavin, patriotism isn’t just on display to and from school. “He goes out anytime and stands with the flag for the police until they see him and they drive away,” said Gavin.