University of West Georgia alumnus Jim Martin, who is a nurse practitioner with UWG Health Services, donated a historically significant American flag to the university in memory of Sept. 11.
The flag flew in an aircraft that transported wounded soldiers from Afghanistan to Germany earlier this year. Martin, who was the flight nurse in charge of the crew on the aircraft, said that the flag was flown for several reasons.
“The primary reason was to allow the wounded soldiers that were coherent to realize that they were heading home, they were safe and that they are American heroes,” said Martin. “The flag now symbolizes the sacrifices made by many over the years to provide us the freedoms that do not come without cost.”
Martin said the flag was also flown on the plane to recognize the support he received from the university while he was deployed for four and a half months this past spring and summer.
UWG’s Health Services staff sent Martin supportive e-mails and was able to fill in his shifts during deployment.
“The staff at Health Services are a wonderful team of people that reach out for the common good of the students,” said Martin. “I cannot think of a better place to work – for they are family.”
The flag flew at University Stadium, and a dedication was held before Saturday's football game.
“During my deployment, I recognized the many tools that were given to me as an alumnus during my deployment as a Major in the [Air Force] Reserve,” said Martin. “For that I am grateful.”
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