CYNTHIA GARCIA
Patriotism and faith filled Central Park July 4 as the Azle Area Ministerial Alliance hosted its annual Follow the Flag event, bringing the community together to honor America’s independence with an evening of music and celebration. Booths were open from 6-8 p.m., offering free food, refreshments and giveaways.
The opening ceremony began at 7 p.m. with TX 456 Azle Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol posting the colors. Veterans from World War II and the Korean War were recognized on stage for their service.
The national anthem was sung by Bob Russell and The Webster Brothers. After the flags were set in place, the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Trail Life Boys Troop TX-3106. Russell and The Webster Brothers then sang “God Bless America.”
AAMA President Alton Davis led the welcome and prayer. He was followed by Azle Mayor Randa Goode, who took the stage to make remarks.
The program also included performances from artist Erik Smallwood, a Christian rap duo and the First Baptist Church of Azle Praise Band.
During the program, Son Shine Ministries Director David Shaffer presented the Lew and Sandy Shaffer Award to Davis.
“This year’s recipient is someone who God has used in extraordinary ways to serve the people of our community. During his 25 years at Ranch Style Beans, he learned teamwork, leadership and significant responsibility,” Shaffer said during the presentation.
Davis accepted the award on stage alongside his family.
“I'm truly humbled, and I'm truly honored to receive the Lew and Sandy Shaffer Award. What true warriors Sandy and Lew Shaffer were for our community. They poured their hearts and souls out for our community, and if it weren't for them, we wouldn't be here tonight having Follow the Flag,” Davis said.
Davis also thanked Shaffer and his wife, Daniele, along with previous award recipients for the honor. He also recognized his family’s support throughout the years of community service before expressing gratitude to the community he now calls home.
“Thank you to my wonderful hometown. I grew up in Graham, Texas, but I've been in Azle, Texas, far greater than I've been in Graham, and so Azle is my hometown. Thank you all so much,” he said.
Since 2012, the AAMA has presented the Lew and Sandy Shaffer Award at Follow the Flag to an individual or couple who has made significant contributions to the community while displaying the love of Christ and making a lasting difference.
The award honors the late Lew Shaffer, cofounder of Son Shine Ministries and founder of Follow the Flag, and his devoted wife, Sandy Shaffer, who also cofounded the ministry and led it until 2002. The selection committee is not the AAMA board; rather, it is a committee made up of former award recipients.
The event concluded with a fireworks extravaganza — among the largest in the area.
