By Maggie Beamguard
Insider Editor
On three special occasions a year, the entrances of Seven Lakes West, North and South are transformed into a patriotic tribute. Hundreds of American flags are placed at each gate to honor Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day.
For more than a decade, this tradition has been organized by a small group of neighbors committed to honoring the service of those in our armed forces, recognizing their sacrifices and celebrating the justice and freedoms it represents.
The flag program started with a volunteer effort, Neighbor to Neighbor. The community group, which has since concluded its work, was originally formed to support residents in practical ways during times of need.
With early support from the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 966, local homeowners associations and private donors, the group began purchasing small American flags in bulk and displaying them for the three national holidays. This small act of patriotism grew into a cherished tradition.
Central to this effort have been Bill and Sandi Carl who have organized and participated in the project for the last 10 years. For Bill, a Vietnam Veteran, and Sandi, the act of placing each flag serves as a gesture honoring service members who reside in the Seven Lakes community.
The couple’s commitment to veterans extends to the wider community. Both are active with Military Missions in Action (MMIA), a North Carolina-based nonprofit focused on assisting veterans and their families in need. Through MMIA Bill has worked on projects like Operation Building Hope which builds wheelchair-accessible ramps for disabled veterans.
Sandi supports the organization by collecting food and supplies for care packages, gathering toys for Operation Rescue Christmas and participating in Wreaths Across America.
The flag program has evolved as volunteers come and go. The smaller flags lining the community entrances last about three years before they need to be replaced. The funds come from a combination of HOA contributions, veterans’ organizations and private donations.
In addition to the smaller flags, Jack Lattin, a retired Army veteran, places a personal collection of large flags at the Seven Lakes West entrance, including one for each branch of the U.S. military, including Space Force.
Large flags also line Seven Lakes Drive, the road that connects the two communities through the business district. This display is organized by local business owner Ed Hill. Hill puts the word out for volunteers and folks can sponsor these flags
After 10 years overseeing the placement of the smaller flags at Seven Lakes North and South, the Carls are stepping back. They are passing the baton to the recreation committee and a new generation of volunteers. The pair will continue to assist with the flags on the west side which now falls to the leadership of resident Lisa Sheridan.
Contact Maggie Beamguard at maggie@thepilot.com.
