Brian Lehmann / Special To The Rocky
Jeffrey Sahli, 14, has been raising and lowering the American flag each school day for the past two years at Evergreen Middle School.
Brian Lehmann / Special To The Rocky
Jeffrey was presented with a flag that flew over Camp Liberty near the Baghdad airport in Iraq at a surprise ceremony at school on Thursday.
Jeffrey Sahli noticed the faded, fraying American flag outside Evergreen Middle School soon after he started eighth grade last year.
"I thought the flag wasn't being treated with flag etiquette. I thought I needed to do that," the 14-year-old said. "I wanted to serve my country and I thought, heck, I'll start right here."
With the principal's permission, he began taking care of Old Glory. Every school day he carefully hoists the U.S. and Colorado flags before classes and takes them down before heading home. He folds the Colorado flag into a neat square, the U.S. flag into a triangle, and places them in a cabinet in the office.
He keeps them inside on stormy days.
Susan Roy didn't know Jeffrey but saw him every time she dropped off and picked up her son at Evergreen Middle.
"Jeff would be out there - rain or shine - it didn't matter," she said. "He just wasn't taking it down, throwing it over his shoulders and taking it inside. He was very purposeful about it."
"As simple as it is to some people, it really is a big deal. He doesn't do it for an attaboy.
"He just does it because it's right."
Roy was so impressed that she told a family friend stationed in Iraq about Jeffrey. First Sgt. Timothy Horan serves with the Kentucky National Guard's 138th Fires Brigade.
"You don't hear of kids taking that kind of responsibility, especially with something like that," he said. "A lot of younger kids think it's corny."
Horan bought a flag at the military store and hung it above Camp Liberty near the Baghdad airport on Jan. 30 in Jeffrey's honor.
The next day, he was flown out of the country for emergency heart surgery. Friends sent the flag to Horan this spring. He got it to Roy who gave it to Evergreen Principal Jane Sutera.
Sutera arranged a surprise ceremony Thursday at the school where a shocked and grateful Jeffrey received the flag and a certificate from the Army recognizing his patriotism.
"I've never been recognized for doing something as simple as that," he said.
"It was one of the best feelings I've had in my life."
He said he wasn't embarrassed by the attention because he wants people to see what he stands for.
"I stand for duty, honor, God and country."
Jeffrey doesn't come from a military background, though he hopes to attend West Point.
He wears a cross and a dog tag on a chain under his shirt. The bands on his braces are red, white and blue.
Outside Evergreen Middle School, the flag is clean and bright.
Jeffrey said the flag reminds him of the soldiers serving in Iraq.
"When they're coming home, I wanted them to see the flag flying high."
kimm@RockyMountainNews.com or 303-954-2361
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May 15, 2008
4:36 p.m.
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Squatch writes:
Good for this kid its a shame the way some of these flags at school look.
May 15, 2008
4:48 p.m.
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SirRealist writes:
Good to see a great story, about a great kid, doing a great thing, and proud of his country and the folks in the service. Terrific job Jeffrey - I'm proud of you.
May 15, 2008
4:59 p.m.
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AWM writes:
Very cool!
May 15, 2008
5:07 p.m.
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buzzman writes:
What a great boy. The country needs more likle him at that age-
Good on him ! Very proud of him.
Semper fi
May 15, 2008
5:40 p.m.
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scootertrash writes:
Way to go Jeffrey, that is awesome. I wish more of the younger generation had your ethics.We need people like you to stand up for the glory of this wonderful country.
May 15, 2008
5:47 p.m.
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MattGuyver_007 writes:
I hope this story reaches far and wide and inspires other kids to consider serving our country in some capacity.
May 15, 2008
5:50 p.m.
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maverick7 writes:
Hey, I bet Jeffery gets tingles and goose bumps with the singing of the national anthem too. I still do, even on TV events. the US is the greatest country in the world, I am working in a foreign country and yearn to be home. I am very proud to be an American
My hope would be to have many young Americans use Jeffery as an example of patriotism, honor and pride.
May 15, 2008
6:06 p.m.
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RealLife writes:
Way to go Jeffrey! You are a true patriot. We need more kids like you out there.
May 15, 2008
6:32 p.m.
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Tommy writes:
Maybe there's hope for our country yet.
May 15, 2008
6:32 p.m.
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rray writes:
While not taking ANYTHING away from this wonderful young man... I have to say that it's great to hear that there are good parents out there. Great "job" Mom and Dad! You should be proud!
May 15, 2008
6:46 p.m.
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scootertrash writes:
I agree with rray, what a great job his parents have done raising him with proper beliefs, good for them.
May 15, 2008
6:57 p.m.
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Ender writes:
Bravo young Man.
May 15, 2008
7:17 p.m.
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GWM writes:
You da man, Jeffrey - a real good man!
Do you think these parents were involved in this young man's development at every turn? Well done!
May 15, 2008
7:38 p.m.
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GaryPrivitt writes:
Very good, Young Sir. As a veteran and someone who believes in the IDEALS of this country, I salute you. You bring honor to a country that seems to be losing it. Thank you.
May 15, 2008
7:40 p.m.
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mayday writes:
I have to agree with the previous posters, outstanding work to both Jeffrey and his parents.
May 15, 2008
9:08 p.m.
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natasha writes:
Reminds me of those kids a couple years ago who were getting suspended for being patriotic. Much more positive story. Good for him!!
May 15, 2008
9:09 p.m.
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kkat6 writes:
Hi! I volunteer with soldier's angels, and just sent this article to my adopted soldier! I think everyone who reads this article should print it and find a soldier online you can send it to--I promise they will love it!! I think we should spread this story to all of our troops!! What an inspiration this boy is!!!
May 15, 2008
9:27 p.m.
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afvet writes:
Hat's off to an awesome patriot!! As a veteran, Jeffrey's patriotism and love of our country means the world to me. He isn't afraid to show his pride for our country's flag. I also thank his parents for doing an excellent job in raising him.
May 15, 2008
10:49 p.m.
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Coloheart writes:
THANK YOU Jeffrey!
May 15, 2008
11:05 p.m.
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kevin3 writes:
A young man who takes pride and responsibility in something other than trying to be cool is cool! Jeffrey seems to be a young man who takes pride in doing the right thing! Keep it up!
May 15, 2008
11:46 p.m.
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ONEman writes:
Bravo kid. It's nice to see that this country is'nt as far gone as some like to think.
This should be an example to those Americans that burn our flag and draw derogatory pictures,our Flag should never be disrespected. It stands for all we are. Atttaboy Jeffrey.
May 16, 2008
12:23 a.m.
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me2 writes:
I love the way he looks holding the flag. Such dignity.
May 16, 2008
6:11 a.m.
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Alive writes:
Good job Jeffrey. Thanks for doing something that makes so many of us feel good. Thanks to the Rocky for running a good story.
May 16, 2008
7:05 a.m.
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rumplstilskin writes:
Great Job Jeffrie, I'm soooooo proud of you as well are most Americans, you have made a grand example for others to follow. Thanks buddy!!!!!!!!
May 16, 2008
7:08 a.m.
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Froward69 writes:
Good job Jeffrey! Now where is the closest JROTC High school For this Young patriot?
May 16, 2008
7:26 a.m.
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mtman writes:
Excellent! Fantastic! Wonderful! There aren't enough words to describe this story, and this fine young man. My hat is off to you, Jeffery. Continue to lead by example, and you can indeed change the world!
May 16, 2008
7:37 a.m.
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vudumom writes:
What a great story about a great kid. Yes, there is still hope for our country as long as we have kids like Jeffery that stand for something in this country.
What a great American!
May 16, 2008
7:38 a.m.
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nuclied writes:
Way to go kiddo! I love to hear about kids who have parents who instill pride in them and their country. These are the type of kids that give me pride in my state and country.
May 16, 2008
7:41 a.m.
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Gene writes:
Very good story. Should have been titled "YOUNG MAN STANDS UP FOR OLD GLORY."
May 16, 2008
7:47 a.m.
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ab5441s writes:
As a parent of a son in Afganistan I want to say thank you for being a proud young American and believing in what this country stand for. I will be sending this article to our son to share with his fellow Marines.
May 16, 2008
7:47 a.m.
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stormy writes:
Jeffrey, What an inspiration! I hope your patriotism never falters. Perhaps you should consider joining the Patriot Guard Riders, you seem to embrace their values. Go to patriotguard.org and check them out. They would welcome you with open arms.
May 16, 2008
7:52 a.m.
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Scott writes:
Jeffery,
You are an outstanding young man. Your parents have the right to be incredibly proud of your patriotism. They have raise a magnificent son.
Scott
formerly PR2 USNR
May 16, 2008
8:01 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Jeffrey,
I sense that this dedication and patriotism will follow you throughout life. I admire your conviction, especially in the event your peers "think it's corny". This country needs more people like you. Good luck to you in all of your endeavors!
May 16, 2008
8:30 a.m.
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bjamin writes:
I read through all the comments and they praise the young man (and rightly so) and they also comment on the fact that we wish more young people were so patriotic. Children do not automatically disrespect and hate America. It is us, the adults (especially the parents - liberals who hate patriotism and conservatives who allow the media and the teachers to instill THIER values upon our children) that are at fault for the apathy and disdain that our children have towards their country, and it makes me sad. It's hard for a parent to instill proper values when the Dems, the teachers, the newspapers and television all tell them you don't know what's best for them.
May 16, 2008
8:38 a.m.
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Scott writes:
bjamin,
I completely agree with you ... stand by to be blasted by my fellow Dems.
Scott
May 16, 2008
8:40 a.m.
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goodheart writes:
This is exactly what most of the world is so lacking - doing the right thing without being asked. Maybe DA and the cop illegally fixing tickets earlier in the week could spend some time with Jeffrey and his family to find some ethics.
Good job Jeffrey!
May 16, 2008
8:49 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Scoot, lets hope this doesn't turn into a political war between the left and right. There are several other forums where that can be done. Let's give Jeffrey some respect.
May 16, 2008
9:09 a.m.
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T1anda writes:
RMN....This wonderful story made my day!!! Jeffrey, we who love America and her beautiful stars and stripes, are so proud of a young man who respects and dedicates his time to care for and honor Old Glory!!!!! You are a true patriot and American hero!!!! WOW!!!!
May 16, 2008
9:19 a.m.
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momof5 writes:
What an awesome young man and many adults could learn from him.
When my older son, a Marine, was stationed in Iraq my youngest son, who was 8, was with me at the local high school to watch a baseball game. When the national anthem was played we all turned toward the flag and my son and I realized it was hanging by only one rope, dangling in the wind. It was dirty and frayed.
During the national anthem many of the parents were visiting. Players were kicking dirt around. None of them were giving the flag or the song the respect they both deserve. After the game my 8 year old went up to the baseball coach and told him that the flag needed to be taken down and replaced because it was dirty and torn and the rope was broken. The coach looked down at him and "Maybe you can find someone to do that. I don't have time."
My little guy said, "I will. My brother is fighting for that flag." When he told me what the coach said, I approached the coach and got the same rude response. So we called the local VFW post and they arranged for someone to come take the flag down and dispose of it and put up a new one.
Many times I am at high school sporting events and am amazed at the lack of respect shown to the flag and the national anthem by students, parents, teachers, coaches and administrators. This young man is a credit to his parents.
May 16, 2008
9:32 a.m.
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kirbysfriend22 writes:
Great to see this boy practicing citizenship. He's a great role model for students across this land
bjamin - You have no idea what you're talking about and you have NO RIGHT to label democrats and teachers as unpatriotic. Spend some time visiting schools and teachers. You DISGUST ME. As a teacher, I take pride in educating my students, of every race, about what it means to be an American, to be an aware and active American and to appreciate our country. I bet I'm far more optimistic about our country's future than you are. More patriotic too.
My students know the meaning and importance of the flag and they know that patriotism is about more than just waiving a flag.
By the way folks, for the those who get upset about flag burning or old faded flags at schools, the flag code (which everyone knows says the flag can't touch the ground, should be treated courteously, etc.) also says that the flag should never be worn as apparel and should never be used for advertising purposes. Happens all the time. Shout when you see it happen.
May 16, 2008
9:36 a.m.
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Scott writes:
Thinking about this brought back one of my Junior High memories. We were ordered by the school principal to stand a face the flag pole when the colors were being raised in the morning. Members of the student council would perform morning colors.
Jeffery, you have done a terrific job. As a suggestion, approach you school's band teacher and see if they can get a trumpeter to blow colors in the morning and evening. I still remember the tunes from my stint in the Navy.
Scott
May 16, 2008
9:50 a.m.
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Scott writes:
kirbysfriend22,
Good points regarding flag etiquette. I know about not using the flag as an article of clothing, but my personal view is that if the intent is honorable, then go for it. Again, this is my personal view and I know that it is at odds with the U.S. Code.
All,
Here is a web site that quotes the U.S. Code regarding the flag: http://www.americanflags.org/docs/eti...
Scott
May 16, 2008
10 a.m.
EastVail writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
May 16, 2008
10:12 a.m.
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SlouchingTowardBoulder writes:
Obiously, "EastVail" above is a Ward Churchill devotee. Good for this boy and kudos to his parents for raising such a fine lad.
May 16, 2008
10:18 a.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
EastVail is one of those who continue to enjoy everything this Country offers, but not will to do anything personally about it.
Enjoy riding the backs of others?
This kid is OUTSTANDING!! Good for you Jeff! Thank you, little Brother!
May 16, 2008
10:18 a.m.
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OhBrother writes:
good story on a good kid. I would like to take the time to state that just becuase you see this one story, doesn't mean other kids like this don't exsist! Plenty of good people are out there, don't just wait for a news story to point it out, go out there and find them!
May 16, 2008
10:28 a.m.
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Scott writes:
OhBrother,
I second your comment. Especially due to peer pressure other kids of Jeff's caliber stay quiet. Jeffery, and his quiet brothers and sisters, are examples of why I have faith in the youth of this country.
Scott
May 16, 2008
10:32 a.m.
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Logic1 writes:
OMG EastVail are you blind. What does displaying your pride and love of country during junior high years ( a very difficult time ) mean to you? Showing this leadership does improve and impact other peoples lives. By setting an example of doing something he believes in, gives inspiration to those around him to do the same. That is the wonderful thing about leadership. I love freedom of speech, it brings out people like you to contrast what is good and right, in case we forget.
Jeremy, thanks! You may not know how big this is. The fact that you think it is simple just adds to your character. Your passion for this country and what it stands for is wonderful. Your willingness to act on your passion is unusual and remarkable. Thanks for being a leader in our community.
May 16, 2008
10:35 a.m.
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EP writes:
Thank you, EastVail. It's important to understand that everything this Jeffery character stands for includes your right to say what you think, and if he genuinely believes in everything that this story suggests he would appreciate it as well.
May 16, 2008
10:37 a.m.
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ItsJustme writes:
Way to go, Jeffrey! I'm forwarding your story to my brother, who's serving in Iraq. He'll be proud to know of your respect for our country.
E -ast- V -a- IL - you should be ashamed of yourself.
May 16, 2008
10:53 a.m.
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redwhiteandBLUE writes:
How sweet! Thank you Jeff!
May 16, 2008
11 a.m.
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rmnreader writes:
What a thoughtful young man! Kudos to his parents for raising a son who believes in the positive power of pride. It is obvious he will go on to do more great things in his life.
Thanks to RMN for giving this kid the recognition he deserves.
May 16, 2008
11:11 a.m.
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ride4jesus writes:
I remember doing this same thing when I lived in upstate NY back when I was a child. I was in elementary school and I raised / lowered / folded the flag every day at school. This was back when I was in the cub scouts and boy scouts.... back when children were taught about freedom, partiotism, love of God and country.
I praised this young man for having the guts to stand up for what he believes in... and for people recognizing his efforts. Well done young man!
May 16, 2008
11:32 a.m.
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lg1960 writes:
This story has nothing to do with party affiliation...it has to do with a great and obviously responsible kid doing a great thing. My hat's off to you Jeffrey. I'm glad the News found out about what you were doing and is giving you some much deserved recognition.
Keep up the great work. :)
May 16, 2008
11:34 a.m.
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ONEman writes:
kirbysfriend22-By the way folks, for the those who get upset about flag burning or old faded flags at schools, the flag code (which everyone knows says the flag can't touch the ground, should be treated courteously, etc.) also says that the flag should never be worn as apparel and should never be used for advertising purposes. Happens all the time. Shout when you see it happen.
Are you a flag burner? You sound as if you think it's ok,your comparing things that could be misconstrued as disrespect when showing patriotism. I agree The Flag should never touch the ground, but burning the Flag shows the utmost disrespect. Are you being sarcastic or trying to educate those who don't know? As a Veteran I would much rather see an American flag bandana or a business sign with one. Rather than seeing one go up in flames or with a swastika drawn in where the stars should be. Let's not confuse etiquette with disrespect.
May 16, 2008
11:40 a.m.
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DahmersCookbook writes:
Way to go kid! I hope everyone here has the flag somewhere on their home or car, and most of all in your hearts.
May 16, 2008
11:54 a.m.
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fiesty writes:
Outstanding. I'm glad the young man knew the proper flag etiquette and stood up for it.
Too often one sees a flag maintained horribly in front of restaurants, homes, etc; it's usually not done deliberately, but out of ignorance. More people need to step up and say something when they see a flag maintained incorrectly. As a disabled vet, I've gone into several businesses to let them know how they were disrespecting their flag; most were very responsive ("oh, I didn't know that...").
Way to go Jeff!
May 16, 2008
11:58 a.m.
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Fresh writes:
East vail,
MOVE TO IRAN !!!!! I'll buy you the plane ticket ahole
May 16, 2008
12:01 p.m.
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ONEman writes:
I second that. This thread has no place for politics.
May 16, 2008
12:12 p.m.
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lg1960 writes:
Can everyone be nice please?
I'm sure that Jeffrey and a lot of his classmates will be reading these comments.
Lead by example.
May 16, 2008
12:31 p.m.
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SirRealist writes:
You know, it's really sad that our media seems to dwell the majority of the time on bringing us the negative, disgusting, disturbing, vile, and morbid. It was just super to read this story and to see so many comments applauding Jeffrey, his parents, and our fine service people. I would suggest to the RMN to set a trend - put someone on finding these stories on a daily basis - make it their job. We know they're out there - find them. It's about time to expend some effort to lift people up, to raise their positive influence, and to illustrate something other than depraved behaviors through the media. (Again, great stuff Jeffrey!)
May 16, 2008
12:54 p.m.
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chuckyg writes:
Jeffrey,
Your the man, too many of todays youth lack what you have. You will be a leader, a great person and I know you will excel in everything you do in the future. Good luck in West Point, I am sure they would be greatfull to have such a patriot. If that doesn't work out, come see the Marines.
Semper Fie Jeffrey
May 16, 2008
12:59 p.m.
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frontpage writes:
As far as I'm concerned , the ony thing "east vail" has impacted, in his excuse for a life, is the vail valley sewer system.
Way to go Jeff, My 12 yr old son asked to raise our own flag the other day and I hate to say I told him it wasn't important enough of a day. a story like this , tells me I was wrong and made me realize every day is just as important as the 4th of July.
May 16, 2008
1:39 p.m.
EastVail writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
May 16, 2008
1:44 p.m.
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mytwosense writes:
Will the RMN please consider removing the ugly comments on this thread? Such vitriol has no place on any thread, but especially this one which is likely being read by the young boy, his classmates, and family.
May 16, 2008
1:50 p.m.
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mytwosense writes:
And that includes removing the post that blasted teachers and Dems for making our kids "unpatriotic."
May 16, 2008
1:50 p.m.
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Alive writes:
EastVail cannot stop the pride I feel for this young man. EastVail has a mental problem and needs to be ignored.
Get some help you miserable creature!
May 16, 2008
2 p.m.
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chuckyg writes:
EasyVail or is it Peace of VailTrash: No one is impressed with your disrespect for the Stars and Stripes. Pleas do us all a favor and don't have children of your own. The world will be a better place. This amazing young man is a remarkable and upstanding citizen of our great country. I wish more young men had his morals.
May 16, 2008
2:12 p.m.
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indisbelief writes:
True patriotism is laying down one's life for all of the eastvails in this country. A selfless act for selfish individuals.
Rock on Jeff!
May 16, 2008
2:20 p.m.
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ONEman writes:
Jeffrey if you or your calls mates are reading this and are wondering what is wrong with Mr. EastVail. Just remember him as the reason why a person should never do Crystal Meth. Only a dirtbag would find fault in such an honorable deed.
May 16, 2008
2:25 p.m.
EastVail writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
May 16, 2008
2:32 p.m.
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ONEman writes:
Once again kids... This is your brain on drugs^^^^^^^^ If sharks were people? EastVail and Bertolt Brecht need to stop Methin around.
May 16, 2008
2:35 p.m.
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chuckyg writes:
If sharks were people they would eat VailTrash to remove him from our country.
May 16, 2008
2:40 p.m.
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ONEman writes:
It's not obedience you tater tot. If you knew anything about honor, dignity, respect ans something bigger than your pathetic self , maybe you'd understand.
May 16, 2008
2:52 p.m.
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ONEman writes:
After reading this If sharks were people again I figured out that for sharks and fish it actually makes sense, but for people it just sounds like excuses for being a coward. What do you think?
May 16, 2008
2:54 p.m.
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FromTheTop writes:
Kudos to you, Jeffrey, and to your parents! West Point is not too far away, Jeffrey. If you are not already in the Boyscouts of America...JOIN and become an Eagle Scout. Write your Congressman NOW and let him know you would like an appointment to West Point upon graduation. Also request ALL information required to get an appointment. Study hard and steady in prep courses.
May 16, 2008
2:56 p.m.
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lethrneck writes:
God Bless you Jeffery and God Bless America
May 16, 2008
2:59 p.m.
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B_Man writes:
Thank you Jeffrey for reminding us all what is good and honorable in our country (THE BEST ON THE PLANET) and that we do still have plenty look forward to with our youth. Also thank you to Jeffrey's parents. This is a great story.
May 16, 2008
3:03 p.m.
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B_Man writes:
And by the way East Vail...Sharks arent people, and people arent sharks. Lead you ridiculously boring life somewhere else and just say thanks to this kid and look up to him for guidance, there is still hope for you.
May 16, 2008
3:07 p.m.
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GWM writes:
EastVail, have you no decency at all? Can't you just leave this thread alone?
Jeffery, as an adult, I am ashamed that the world produces people like EastVail. Please ignore him.
May 16, 2008
3:10 p.m.
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CaptainObvious writes:
This story just made my day, as did most of the responses. Thank you Jeffery, RMN, and the majority of you on here.
May 16, 2008
4:05 p.m.
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LamboMan writes:
Ditto, Captain! What a great story to start my weekend with. Patriotism is one of the virtues I hold dearest. To be a citizen of the greatest country in the world is an honor that should never be taken for granted.
God bless you, Jeff!
May 16, 2008
4:07 p.m.
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Darling writes:
Ladies and Gentleman, meet the President of the United States in 2048 - Jeffrey Sahli.
I love this story!
May 16, 2008
4:11 p.m.
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SSGBilyeu writes:
To Jeffery Sahil,
What you are doing is one of the finest things I have seen in a long while. I know you are not doing this honorable task for any reason other than it is the right thing to do.
Jeffery, you have no idea how many lives you have touched by your selfless act of honor. This story is traveling the web right now, this very second. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen stationed all over the world are being sent this story. I hope you can sense the swelling of emotions, the pep in the step, and just plain old pried and appreciation these men and women are felling right now.
Old war horses in VFW and American Legion lodges all over the country will hear about this and their faith in the country that they fought and suffered for will be restored. At drill in the morning, a copy of this article will be posted in our squad room and read at formation.
One final thing, West Point would do well to file this away for future reference!
Gob bless you and your family.
Staff Sergeant SL Bilyeu, TNSG, 2nd Military Police Regiment
May 16, 2008
4:29 p.m.
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BMat writes:
Nice job kiddo.
i bet he doesn't do it when he gets to high school. that's a whole different world . . .
May 16, 2008
6:32 p.m.
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mytwosense writes:
BMat, by then I think he'll deserve a rest. :) Besides, his actions are probably prompting schools everywhere right now to spruce up their flag, so maybe he won't have to do this by the time he's in high school.
What most impressed me about this article is that he's picked a duty and stuck with it. A lot of adults could benefit from such a lesson in discipline and "stick-to-it-iveness."
I would love to see the RMN run even more stories of initiatives kids in Colorado are selflessly taking on, from trail maintenance and litter pick up, to moving elderly neighbors lawns for free.
This was a great article, my only critique is that some of the posters on BOTH sides couldn't resist the temptation to do some partisan mudslinging.
May 16, 2008
8:34 p.m.
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DMCinLV writes:
Yeah, Jeffrey! Amazing that this wonderful story is published the day after a 32 year old co-worker of mine laughed after reading an article that the USA Flag is not to touch the ground. He thought that was a joke and not fact.
Keep up the great work, Jeffrey! YOU are our future and we are proud of you!
May 16, 2008
9:29 p.m.
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Knightrider1961 writes:
Way to go, Jeffrey! And it's about time for us adults to do the same thing when we see our flag, national and state, being treated the same way at banks, stores, and government buildings such as courthouses and post offices. For too long I've seen our nation's flag threadbare & faded or handled in a carefree manner at too many locations. Let us all follow Jeffrey's fine example!
May 17, 2008
7:39 a.m.
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disturbed_crew writes:
Jeffrey you are an inspiration to all, especially this old vet. Don't put too much stock in what this "Vail" person says. He is proof positive of what I have always believed, "Freedom has a price that the protected will never know". The truth of the matter is that America is full of young people just like yourself and without dragging politics into this keep believing and doing what is right just because it is right, not because your told too or because it "feels right", or for accolades. Don't worry about being a great person, just follow your heart and history will put you where you need to be.
May 17, 2008
9:06 a.m.
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Vtwinman writes:
Eastvail speaks of obediance! He is the epitome of the indoctrination the Ward Churchills and other liberal professors would like the youth to learn in the classrooms.
May 17, 2008
9:37 a.m.
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Matts45 writes:
Good job Jeff. Back in the day this was called color guard we did it for all the same reasons you do it. That was way before our corrupt government took all the school funding. We also stood up every morning saluted the flag and said the Pledge of Allegiance in its entirety. You are a good egg and your parents should be proud. Keep up the good work kid. I hope that some day we can call you Mr. President and you might be able to restore the purity and dignity that our country so deserves.
May 17, 2008
3:05 p.m.
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Alive writes:
Reading these comments gives me hope. This is good news that I find good for my spirit. The poster here are first class.
May 17, 2008
3:46 p.m.
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grannyrett writes:
Would someone please send this article to the Stars and Stripes? If I knew how to do it, I would. I think all of our military personnel would be proud of this young man. What a great example he is of what it takes to be a great American. This should be on national news.
May 17, 2008
7:23 p.m.
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kukes writes:
Granny, I forwarded it to Stars and Stripes. This kid is so incredibly unselfish. There are so many more like him, we just don't hear about them. Maybe us adults could take the time to seek out other kids like Jeffrey. He is a class act.
May 18, 2008
5:38 a.m.
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wewhodream writes:
So many times this is how it begins, with simple things, simple acts; to see a problem as an opportunity...where most look and say, "Somebody ought to do something", someone else declares, "Hey, I AM somebody!" If enough of us took this kind of responsibility we would have the kind of community we dream of. We can make it happen.
May 30, 2008
7:38 a.m.
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Fishingbear writes:
Way To Go Jeffery, If More Parents Would Install These Values In Thier Children, There Would Be More Like Jeffery Out There...
God Bless You Jeffery And Your Parents