AUBURN — On July 12 a flag raising ceremony was held at Pettengill Park only five days before the 87th anniversary of American Legion Baseball, July 17, 1925.

It all started at the previous Legion Baseball game held at Pettengill Park. Old Glory was missing. Since that time Dan St. Pierre, Legion baseball liaison for the William J. Rogers post 153, made calls to all the city councilors. Three responded and pointed him in the right direction which resulted in a newly restored flag pole and new flags.

Tizz Crowley spoke to the group on the importance of contacting the city mayor and councilors with community concerns. She went on to say that Auburn citizens should be aware that council meetings have an open session for community members to bring up concerns that would improve the quality of life in Auburn. Citizens don’t need a complaint to attend the open session; they can comment on things they like and feel are important for the citizens of Auburn. It’s the average citizen who makes a difference, Crowley said.

The new flag pole holds the United States and POW flags.

American Legion Baseball has taught hundreds of thousands of young Americans the importance of sportsmanship, leadership, unselfishness, good health and active citizenship. The program is also a promoter of equality, making teammates out of young athletes regardless of their income levels or social standings. American Legion Baseball has been, and continues to be, a stepping stone to manhood for millions of young men who have gone on to serve their country or community, raise families or play the sport at the highest level.

Field footage markers were designed and made by Chris Cameron of the Auburn Traffic Division, the flag pole was restored and installed by Gary O’Connell’s Auburn Highway Departments “A” Team, the American flag was donated by Dan St. Pierre and the POW flag was donated by brothers Gary and George O’Connell, whose father was very involved in Legion baseball.

The work isn’t complete, according to Dan St. Pierre. A new scoreboard is still needed; if a business or individuals donate materials, St. Pierre will provide the labor to build a second story press box above the dugout.

Leroy Walker, who retired from the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department in 2010, said the scoreboard was installed approximately 18 to 20 years ago.

St. Pierre found a portable scoreboard that would cost $1100 plus $30 for shipping. Anyone interested in making a donation can contact Post 153 and ask for Tibby, the post finance officer, at 782-1118.

Anyone interested in participating in the flag raising and singing of the National Anthem before the games can contact the post as well.