Flags flying, some at half-staff, the sound of the national anthem, and parades across the country — all paying tribute to the patriotism and sacrifice of our fallen heroes. 

For retired Army Veteran Richard Shaw, Memorial Day is special. But how he celebrates is even more significant

“We have a lot to be proud for,” Shaw said “This was the flag that we had in 1812, but it didn’t become famous until 1814. It flew over Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland.” 

Inside American Legion Andrew Jackson Post 99, houses a perfect replica collection of the first American flags. 

“That’s called the Betsy Ross flag,” Shaw said, pointing at one of the flags pinned up to the wall.

From every tear and bullet hole, Shaw believes there’s no other collection like it. The only other place anyone would find these are at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, he says.

“To my knowledge these flags were purchased from a company that specializes in the reproduction of ancient art.”

And each one has its own history — history Shaw loves to share.

“This was a tax on whiskey. This is called the whiskey rebellion flag,  he said, pointing to another flag on the wall. “This very flag was carried by a group of farmers in Western Pennsylvania that refused to pay the tax and killed the tax”

History that dates back to the 1700s, displayed on these walls, reminds Shaw daily why he served — and why we remember those who didn’t make it home.

“I think it’s really cool because we already have one of the better counties in this state in my opinion, and now we have a little bit of our heritage that we can share and so that people can be a little more proud about being an American,” Shaw said.

American Legion Andrew Jackson Post 99 will host a Memorial Day Celebration on Monday at 2 p.m. and the flags will be on display for everyone to see.