A local group displays hundreds of flags honoring fallen Marines

MAHLEVILLE, Missouri — The family of a fallen active-duty Marine said they were overwhelmed by an outpouring of support as hundreds of flags flew to greet the family outside a local funeral home.

“Patriotism is alive and well in America. If you don’t believe me, help us set up the flags, and you’ll see,” said Jeff Hastings, president and CEO of The Flagman’s Mission Continues.

Flags were flown outside Coates’ funeral home off Lemay Ferry Road on Thursday. Volunteers from both sides of the river helped the nonprofit raise the 3-foot and 5-foot flags.

“Why? Because it makes my heart feel better. I think it’s very important to give back,” said Bonnie Janas, a volunteer. “It’s good for families. It’s good for the community to recognize the sacrifices that have been made and that’s a small part we can do just to raise flags, I think It helps families.”

Flags were raised in honor of the US Marine Corps corporal. Kyle Mitchell Camp. His funeral is scheduled for Friday at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

“On the day of the funeral and the day of the burial, the family is grieving, and they are sedated,” Hastings said. “They’re really numb, and I promise you it’s human nature. They won’t remember much about the funeral because they’re so numb. But one thing we know for real is that they will remember all those flags. And for years to come, they will remember that their community, people they didn’t even know, came out to honor their loved ones. They will. They will cherish it for the rest of their lives.”