The board of supervisors and the recreational park advisory committee sponsored a Massing of the Colors on Saturdayat the Penn Forest Township Recreational Park on Route 903 to honor our nation's flag and to celebrate Flag Day.

The Massing of the Colors is one of the oldest military ceremonies in the American Army. The Massing of Colors is outlined in Baron Friedrich von Steuben's Blue Book and was practiced by Revolutionary soldiers.At the beginning of the 17th century, armies throughout the world were adopting the regimental system. Regiments were assigned a specific color or number for ease of identification and position on the battlefield. In battle, the color or flag party marched at the front center of its unit as a point for the unit to dress on.By leading the unit and battle, the colors became prime targets, as victories in those days were expressed in terms of numbers of enemy colors captured; consequently the color party bore the brunt of the battle and suffered heavy casualties.The program on Saturday incorporated elements of the traditional Massing of Colors, memorial, and retreat ceremony. While encompassing these elements it served to remind those present of the pageantry of a military parade and the gratitude Americans owe those who served and are serving our nation today.The color guards from each organization entered the park following a prescribed sequence of events which included a salute to the flag; comments from Jean Papay, office manager for state Rep. Doyle Heffley; and concluded with the playing of taps to honor those who have given the greatest sacrifice for our country and communities.Color guards from Boy Scout Troop 555 of Jim Thorpe, American Legion Post 304 of Jim Thorpe, American Legion Post 269 of Palmerton, and Vietnam Veterans of Carbon County of Lehighton participated in the event.Organizers hope this will become an annual event.