Medina’s Faith and Freedom Club met on June 10th to celebrate Flag Day.
The group heard from two veterans. Chris Dion, chaplain for American Legion Post 157 started off the meeting with a prayer and the group followed it up with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Vickie Shroyer, group leader, updated the group on the future speakers and activities. She spoke about Medina history expert, Dr. Tom Hatfield who will speak to the group in November.
Chris Dion introduced Christopher De Leon, a tenyear Navy veteran and gave a brief background of his service.
De Leon got his degree from the Art Institute and started his photography business, Shellback Photography. De Leon grew up and went to high school in Medina.
In 2021, De Leon moved back to Medina. His partner in the photography business is Christine Wood, a Medina High friend.
DeLeon has four daughters ranging from ages 28 to 19. DeLeon currently lives in Temple but plans to return to Medina to live.
De Leon answered questions about his naval service and photography.
He stated that “seeing the world was really enjoyable. I got to see some of the most beautiful places in the world.”
He admits that the Hill Country and Medina are the most beautiful places to him. He also admits to liking Hawaii.
“I have actually always liked having cameras. My stepdad had a Nikon,” remarked De Leon.
He currently uses a Nikon to shoot his photos. A love of water influences De Leon’s subjects. “I always try to shoot sunsets, there’s always a cloud different somewhere.”
His photography is available for sale through his web site, shellbackphotography. com De Leon presented Shroyer with a photo of a Medina sunset to recognize all she does for the community.
Chris Dion spoke about Trail Life and American Heritage Girls, a notable interest of his. He noted that Trail Life was started in 2013 and was founded by Scout Masters who wanted to keep the organization faithful to its original tenets. Dion said that Trail Life and American Heritage Girls are similar to Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts except that both organizations have a strong thread of Christian foundation and worldview Both groups were able to do an overnight camping experience on the Essex Class Aircraft Carrier Lexington which is docked in Corpus Christi as a floating museum.
Dion then spoke about his organization called Rusted Knight Ministries.
He finished the program with a presentation on the history of the American flag. He spoke about the folds of the flag when a service member retires or is buried. He read the script about the meaning of the characteristics of flag design.
“The flag when folded contains thirteen folds,” stated Dion.
Then, Dion described the meaning of each of those folds.
“The United States flag represents who we are. It stands for the freedom we all share. The pride and patriotism of our country, we cherish its legacy as a beacon of hope to one and all. Long may it wave.”
To end his presentation about the flag, Dion spoke about what it really means when a flag is burned. He contrasted the meaning of flag burning with the absence of hope and peace brought by the flag.
“Instead, you burn the banner of your own sons and daughters who rise to carry her forward.”
Shroyer invited the attendees to make sure and feel free to enjoy the refreshments provided and gathered Dion and De Leon for pictures.
The next meeting of the Faith and Freedom Club will be on July 8 at the Rodney Camp Pavilion of the Medina Community Library. Reception will start at 3 p.m. with the program beginning at 4 p.m.
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