WPBN reported that a massive concrete American flag along M-72 in Kalkaska County was retired and buried in the ground. Dave Halachukas with the Patriot Park Veterans Memorial told WPBN that the roadside landmark had deteriorated over 20 years, "bleeding out sand," because it was never sealed properly.
To clear space for a new park driveway, arrangements were made to remove the structure. VFW Post Commander Joe Graff performed a military ceremony for the flag before Schwab Construction, LLC buried it. Yensen Schwab of Schwab Construction told WPBN it was the first time his crew had been asked to bury a flag. Following the removal, Patriot Park plans to install a new sign, a webcam on the ridge, and a disc golf course.