Every morning at dawn, Col. Barfoot raises his American flag up a 21' flag pole that stands proudly in his front yard. Every evening at dusk, he lowers that same flag and folds it tri-corner style. Every day without fail, he dutifully carries out this ritual.
Col. Barfoot is a relatively new resident of this community and his daughter lives several houses away. The homeowners' association of this community hired an attorney who in turn sent Col. Barfoot a registered letter. This letter told the Colonel that he had a specific amount of time to remove this pole or face legal action. They cited their demand based on the Homeowner's Association covenants, prohibiting such things that are not "aesthetically pleasing." How does one define that? The letter further stated that if he continues to violate this order and fails to remove it by the deadline, he faces daily fines, court costs, and legal fees.
The Colonel's daughter told a local media station that this is physically upsetting her father. He has been flying his flag on vertical poles as long as he can remember. The Col. did try to play by the rules, seeking permission before erecting it. The HOA denied it. When he wanted to appeal, they refused any type of further dialog.
Pictures of him and his home are all over the internet. A facebook page has also been started on his behalf and as of the this time, he has over 31,000 friends and supporters. That number continues to grow by the hour.
Numerous organizations have taken up his fight. Attorneys have offered their assistance pro bono. This man is a war hero of 3 wars, risking his life, taking prisoners and saving other lives in the process. Why the hell can't he fly his flag on his own property? How is flying the American flag on a 21' pole on his front yard an eye sore to others?
The home owner's association says it's not about the flag, but the flag pole. They demand he conform to standards and do what every one else does. Why the hell should he? There is absolutely nothing in the HOA rules that expressly forbids free standing flagpoles. I'm no attorney, but it's possible he's got a case. I'm also thinking he's got a lot of friends in high places.
Senators, Governors, VFW, Veteran's Admin, Medal of Honor Society, Patriot Guard Riders, active and retired military personnel, hundreds of thousands strong, are coming to his defense.
Friday, December 11 is his D-day for this hearing. I am following this story closely.
Like a true soldier, he will fight for what is right.
Sir, thank you for fighting for our freedom. We owe you a debt of gratitude.
The Colonel's home
Footnote: As of Dec. 8, the law firm of Coates and Davenport withdrew as attorneys representing the Essex Square Homeowner's Association.
By late in the afternoon, the HOA issued a press release indicating that they would no longer seek legal action against the Colonel. His flag pole could stay.
I just love happy endings.
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