Sgt. Bradly Goforth honors his flag with great respect

After hoisting the flag high weeks prior, Sept. 8 saw the retirement ceremony for Sgt. Bradly Goforth’s flag. At White County Courthouse, a brief ceremony with the American Legion honored the service of Sgt. Goforth and also served as a raising of a brand-new flag to fly at the courthouse as well.

Sgt. Bradly Goforth recently returned to his home of Sparta/White County, and he made an offer to the White County Courthouse- flying the same flag that he flew while deployed overseas.

Sgt. Goforth had been enlisted since July 2021, serving in Syria. It was there he proudly flew the same American flag he offered to fly at the courthouse. The flag was on Sgt. Goforth’s fighting vehicle during his operations in Syria. Notably, it was flown during the 12-day conflict with Israel a

The Sept. 8 ceremony saw a welcome from County Executive Denny Wayne Robinson, as well as a prayer led by Tim Bumbalough, of Woodmen of the World. The American Legion led the pledge, followed by more remarks from Robinson.

During his speech, Robinson said, “This special flag, it’s more than just red cloth, white cloth, and blue cloth. It’s actually a living emblem that represents our republic.”

Before turning the microphone to Sgt. Goforth, Robinson finished his remarks with, “Today, we honor the flag - Sgt. Goforth’s flag that he took into battle. He gave us the honor and the privilege to fly this flag over our courthouse. I want to thank Sgt. Goforth for that.”

Sgt. Goforth shared a few words afterward, both about his journey while in service and the importance of all veterans.

“This means everything to me, my two boys, and my wife,” he said. “When I first requested this flag be flown here at the courthouse, it wasn’t for myself. It was to share a piece of the journey that so many of us in uniform have carried.”

After his speech, Sgt. Goforth joined the American Legion and Robinson in lowering the flag. The American Legion members folded it carefully and delivered the flag back to Sgt. Goforth, which he says he shall always carry with him. When he passes away, he intends to impart the flag onto his two sons.

A new flag was then unfolded and hoisted up high, with the assistance of Sgt. Goforth and the American Legion. It waved proudly as attendees to the event cheered for both Sgt. Goforth’s service, all veterans’ sacrifices, and the new flag to commemorate Sgt. Goforth’s powerful story and journey.