King County Councilman Pete von Reichbauer and the Federal Way Soroptimists hosted South King County’s 26th Annual Flag Day Celebration on Saturday at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way.

This annual celebration has provided the South King County community with the opportunity to honor current and fallen military personnel, as well as the flag itself.

US Army Brigadier General (retired) Doug Richardson gave the keynote address. Richardson spearheaded the creation of the South Sound Military and Communities Partnership to address military growth and coordination issues. He served in the 2nd Ranger Battalion at Fort Lewis and retired from the Army Reserve as brigadier teneral after 32 years of active and reserve service. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal.

General Nam Pyo Park, ROK Army, was recognized for his service during the event. He is also involved in sponsoring a Korean Way Memorial in Federal Way.

A special recognition was also given to police officers from Algona and Federal Way for their efforts to keep our community a safe place. Officer Terry Carter and Officer James McKay from the Algona Police Department, along with Officer Jeff Mundell and Lt. Brigham Schulz from the Federal Way Police Department were all recognized for their dedication as public safety officers and for their military service.

“On this day we recognize the meaning of the American flag and all that it represents,” said von Reichbauer, who served in the U.S. Army. “We salute our flag and give thanks to all of those who have served, whether it be in the military or as public safety officers, to protect the freedoms that we enjoy.”

Photos courtesy of Bruce Honda.