BUCYRUS — When Jon Muchow was asked to raise the flag each day at his place of employment, he took it seriously.
Muchow studied the proper procedure of raising the flag each morning and lowering it in the evening. He even took it upon himself to learn the pledge of allegiance so he can say it each day after raising the flag at Waycraft Industries at the corner of River Street and North Sandusky Avenue.
“I like doing it,” said Muchow.
Muchow was honored Friday when Chaplain John “Benny” Uhl and Adjutant Dave Roberts of American Legion Post 181 in Bucyrus came to the factory to present him with the Red, White and Blue award.
“We wanted to recognize Jon for his dedication to our flag and our country,” said Roberts. “We heard he is very dedicated to his duties of raising and lowering the flag each day and that shows true patriotism.”
Muchow’s brother, Dave, was on hand to see his brother receive the award.
“I am very proud of him,” said Dave Muchow.
Chelsie Painter works for the Crawford County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCDD) that encompasses Waycraft and chats with Muchow on a regular basis as he raises the flag.
“He is so dedicated to putting up the flag. He watches the weather to make sure it is okay for him to raise the flag each morning,” said Painter. “He absolutely loves doing it and is so proud.”
Vince Ponziani, director of the CCDD, said that he noticed Waycraft had a flag pole, but no flag when he took on his position.
“I went out and purchased a flag. Jon wanted to be the one to take care of it. He went home and learned everything there is to know about raising and lowering the flag, proper care of the flag and even the Pledge of Allegiance,” said Ponziani.
The award for Muchow was not the only thing going on at Waycraft on Friday.
“I want people to know that our individuals are hard workers and can do so much, not only here but throughout the community,” Ponziani said.
Waycraft plant manager Mark Beran said more than40 individuals work at the plant on a daily basis.
“We have some of the best workers in the area,” said Beran of the employees that package lightbulbs for the Bucyrus GE Plant, create boxes for Timken and do work for Bucyrus Esco Blades.
Ponziani said he plans to get his workers more involved in the community.
“Give our guys a chance and they will absolutely amaze you,” Ponziani said.
Ponziani used the celebration of Muchow’s award as a chance to engage other members of the community, including local law enforcement.
“We decided to have a cook-out and invite people from the community. We especially wanted to invite local law enforcement. With all of the unrest in our country right now, we want them to know how much we respect and appreciate them,” said Ponziani.
