Westport Fire Memorial Day Parade Unit Carries Flag Flown in Iraq

Firefighters carry flag flown in Iraq in today's parade. WestportNow.com photo Today's Westport Memorial Day parade included an American flag of special significance – a flag flown over Baghdad during the war in Iraq.

The Westport Fire Department gave the flag an honored place directly behind the department's honor guard.

Assistant Chief Chris Ackley received the flag from his nephew, Marine Gunnery Sgt. Edward Ackley serving with the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines based at Twenty-Nine Palms, Calif.

The flag at the time of delivery was signed by all the members of Ackley's platoon.

Unfortunately, since the delivery date, one of the members who had signed the flag was killed in the line of duty, Chris Ackley said.

The Marine died in an incident in the city of Fallujah, where insurgent activity has been especially active.

The flag will be placed on public display at fire headquarters to honor all the men and women who have served in both peace and war.

Posted May 31, 2004 01:15 PM