Some Great Falls residents took their patriotism to the streets in celebration of Flag Day, as they participated in the inaugural “Cruisin’ the Flag” event at Broadwater Overlook Park.
Hosted by the Great Falls Association of Realtors, “Cruisin' the Flag” featured a gathering of Great Falls residents, guest speakers, and performances. But part of this year’s ceremony was held virtually, in line with social distancing.
Performances and speeches were pre-recorded and shared on social media for participants to watch at home. Guest presenters included officials from the Great Falls Association of Realtors, Montana Air National Guard, and also featured some CMR students playing “Taps." This year’s festivities were held in honor of the late Great Falls airman Ian McBeth, who died while piloting a plane fighting wildfires in Australia.
While half of the ceremony took place virtually, the other half commenced on the city streets. Drivers cruised by the flag and paraded down 10th Avenue South displaying their American pride.
Great Falls Association of Realtors CEO Terry Thompson explained why she believes this year's event is an important display of patriotism. “Just in general, Great Falls is a patriotic city... and in the state of the affairs of our country we’re really thinking that today’s a good day to be patriotic. We need some healing. so we’re just asking everybody to come out and show their patriotism,” Thompson said.
The Montana Air National Guard partners with the Great Falls Association of Realtors to store and fly the flag for the Great Falls Realtors Flag Project. If you ever want to know whether they flag isn’t flying or is at half-staff, you can head to the Great Falls Flag website. Or, if interested in carrying a flag for a demonstration, you can do so by contacting the Great Falls Realtors Flag Project.
