Gen. S. D. Butler Detachment at Concord Elementary

On May 25, 2017, the Gen. Smedley D. Butler Detachment No. 741, Marine Corps League, headquartered in Newtown Square, presented its regular Americanism program about the history of the American flag at the Concord Elementary School in Glen Mills. The Americanism team gave two Flag History programs to students and staff. Presenters were Detachment members Jim Mulhern, Dan Fitzpatrick and Earle Drake. Jim, a former Marine Corps Captain, partners with Earle Drake and Dan Fitzpatrick to present an Americanism program centered in the evolution of the Flag from the 1400's to the present.

During the presentation, the students learned about the history of the Stars and Stripes and the symbolism of the different features of the flag. The students asked excellent questions and were very interested in the history of the flag. While Jim Mulhern and Earle Drake made the flag presentation, the students were also very interested in bugler Dan Fitzpatrick’s rendition of military bugle calls and songs. Each student received a Flag Pin and a Flag Recognition Card signed by Jim & Earle. The General Smedley D. Butler Detachment provides educational programs for children, historically relevant exhibits in libraries and museums, and Graveside Honor Ceremonies. It also provides financial and other assistance to wounded veterans and their families.

The Marine Corps League was founded in 1923 by WWI Marine hero and then Maj. Gen. and Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, John A. Lejeune. Today the League boasts of a membership in excess of 76,000. Its sponsored programs include Marines Helping Marines, the Youth Physical Fitness Program, the Young Marines of the Marine Corps League, the Veterans Service Officer Program, the Marine Corps League Auxiliary, the Toys for Tots program, the Adopt-a-Highway program, and several scholarships.

Shown in 2 photos is Jim Mulhern speaking to the classes and the third photo with Earle Drake and Jim with a few class members at Concord Elementary School.