ROSWELL, Ga. — In a heartfelt ceremony at Roswell High School, the legacy of Marine Gunnery Sgt. Aaron M. Kenefick, a former student who made the ultimate sacrifice is cemented into school history.
Kenefick died in combat during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2009. The non-profit organization, Flags of the Fallen, is leading the initiative to ensure that heroes like him are never forgotten.
He enlisted in the Marines immediately after graduating from Roswell High School in 1997 and is remembered by those who loved him as a caring and brave man. Flags of the Fallen, a nonprofit founded by Mike Morgan - CEO and a passionate woodworker - is dedicated to honoring the lives of fallen service members and first responders through custom wooden flags.
Morgan's inspiration for creating the organization came from a deeply personal place.
"When we lost the 13 heroes in Afghanistan, I couldn't get it out of my head, so I said I was going to make 13 flags," shared Morgan. The heartfelt appreciation from the families of the 13 soldiers listed kept him going. "They said, 'Don't stop with us,'" he added.
Since then, Morgan has honored the lives of more than 200 fallen service members and first responders with custom wooden flags. The initiative aims to provide solace to grieving families, assuring them that their loved ones will not be forgotten.
The flag honoring Kenefick will now hang in the hallways of Roswell High School, serving as a lasting tribute to his bravery. The Kenefick family generously donated the flag to the school, expressing the hope that students will be inspired to understand the meaning of service and protection for their country.
"It's our honor to do this for him and everyone else," Morgan said.
He emphasized that these flags represent more than just a symbol; they are a tangible reminder for families and communities that the sacrifices made by their loved ones will be remembered for generations.
The ceremony at Roswell High School was a poignant moment for students and staff, who now have a physical symbol of Kenefick's courage and sacrifice. As the flag hangs in the school's hallways, it serves as a reminder to current and future students about the significance of paying the ultimate sacrifice for one's country.
For those interested in learning more about Flags of the Fallen, making a donation, or nominating a fallen hero for a custom wooden flag, visit flagsofthefallen.org.