“My dad was a World War II and Korean War veteran. We didn’t know he was a member of Merrill’s Marauders. They went through hell. Of the thousands who volunteered, he was among the few who returned home. He was willing to die for his country, but what kept him going was wanting to get back to his baby girl and his wife, who was a woman of faith in God. 

We were raised as patriots, to love and serve our country. Beginning with Dad, who was Army/Air Force, we have many family members that served in our military forces. Connecting military service to voting is a call to duty. I don’t think my parents ever missed a chance to vote.

So I’m out here waving flags today in my dad’s spirit and thanking people for voting. I saw someone doing this in Daphne in 2024, and I joined him. There we were, waving our banners and flags.

The message is simple: Vote. That’s it. I sent a message to my children: ‘It’s not my business who you vote for. Just vote.’ Many Americans fought for this right to be heard. 

I was born in San Antonio and raised in Indiana. I’ve been in Fairhope for more than twenty-five years. I love the spirit here. Four of our six children live here now. This is where our roots are.

I’ve had my share of anger and disappointment, but I choose to continue loving this country no matter what—that’s what I was taught. The emphasis is on ‘We the people.’ Making anything better begins with you. Be the light you want to see in the world. 

I’m thankful my parents taught us to love this country, and I’m waving this flag in my dad’s spirit. His calling was protecting and defending this country for freedom, liberty, and the right to vote. To pick and choose, or dismiss and live, with the consequences. 

God bless America and God bless Alabama and all the souls that live in this state.”

Linda