Northampton Airman Welcomed Home

After almost a year, Shawn Lundy's Air Force flag that was ceremonially placed among other veterans' flags in the township's board meeting room was returned to him with gusto at last night's Board of Supervisor's meeting.

More than 10 community veterans from several different branches stood next to Lundy as Vice Chairman Vincent Deon, a former airman himself, officially welcomed Lundy back to Northampton. He presented the first class airman not only with a flag but a certificate commendating his efforts in southwest Asia and another flag Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick had flown over the capitol to represent his service to the United States.

"I'm proud to be from Northampton," Lundy said. "It's been a great experience and something I'll never forget. Thank you very much."

Alongside Lundy were his parents, Jack and Kathryn Lundy, who are from Richboro. In his short speech, their son thanked them for supporting him and building him up when he really needed their help.

Lundy said after the ceremony it was an honor to be recognized in this way.

"Seeing retired guys show respect to me was overwhelming," he said. "It really was emotional enough."

The program, begun by the Veteran's Advisory Committee in April of 2003, is meant to honor patriots from Northampton Township who have served or are currently serving overseas in combat zones. Lundy's flag was one of 68 placed in the display and there are five people still on duty, Committee Vice Chairman Pete Palestina said.

He also took time to mention one patriot who did not return safely: Bobby Dembowski, Jr., whose service is commemorated with a flag in the display case at the administration building. The flag is decorated with a black ribbon with his name on it, Palestina said.

"Thank you for your service," he said, addressing Lundy. "Northampton is proud to have you back home and proud to have you as one of our Northampton patriots."

Lundy said he plans to leave again for Germany at the end of the month.