In 1973, Marv Hume bought Sunset Beach in Cape May Point and initiated a very special event—Summer Evening Flag Ceremony.
Each day from Memorial Day to Labor Day, a casket flag from a member of the U.S. armed forces is raised there. One half hour before sunset, the flag is lowered after a dedication and ceremony.
Hume says a few words about the veteran, and then they play “God Bless America” and the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Next they play taps while the flag is lowered. If the family members are present, they can lower and fold the flag. If the family is not present, Hume asks for anyone from the crowd who is a veteran, to help out.
The flag is folded and returned to the family. Some flags are donated for future use.
During the ceremony, if there are children, they are taught the proper way to handle the flag, being careful to keep it from touching the ground.
It’s a very moving tribute to those who served our country. Some people salute.
Sunset Beach (which includes three gift shops and a snack bar) is located at 502 Sunset Blvd., Cape May. 609-884-7079. They are currently taking bookings for 2009.
On the evening of June 17, the solider being honored was a Mr. Coombs. He was a local guy who joined the volunteer fire department after he came home. He died in a car crash on the way to a fire.
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