waving American flag

Athens State University will honor the U.S. flag and first responders today at its annual Flag Day ceremony and cookout.

The event is scheduled for noon in the Sandridge Student Center Ballroom on the Athens State campus.

“It’s a way to celebrate the flag’s true meaning to all of us,” said Chris Latham, director of marketing and public relations at Athens State. “It’s transitioned over the years, and we now include first responders.

“It’s a way for us to honor those who work so hard to serve us in the community and who put their lives on the line for their neighbors every day.”

Ali Elizabeth Turner, publisher and editor of “Athens Now,” will be the guest speaker at the free public event. Music will be provided by the Athens State Community Band and Copeland Road barbershop quartet.

The cookout, held after the event, will feature hamburgers and hot dogs served by Food Fite.

“We invite the public to join us and have a free lunch, and most of the first responders stay and eat, too,” Latham said. “It’s a good way for the public to meet them and thank them personally.”

Latham said the event shouldn’t last more than about two hours, so “people can come during their lunch break if they need to.”

More information on the event is available online at athens.edu/flagday. Those interested in learning more can also contact University Advancement at 256-233-8215 or advancement@athens.edu.