92-year-old Howard Banks is a decorated war veteran who bravely fought for his country during World War 2.
He continues to honor his service by flying American and Marine Corps flags on his property.
Unfortunately, not everyone honors the sacrifice of the many who died or the flag that represents them.
For Banks, standing against people who wanted to defame that flag was worth fighting for, even as an elderly man.
Here’s his incredible story.
92-year-old war veteran assaulted for flying American and Marine Corps flags.
It all began when he was sitting in his home one night.
When Banks heard noises in his yard coming from the flagpoles he had erected, he went outside.
Shockingly, he was brutally attacked by two unknown individuals attempting to destroy his flags.
He had just caught them in the act.
Unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time his flags had been vandalized, but it was the first time he had been physically attacked because of them.
He shared that his flags had previously been shredded and thrown into a ditch.
Banks sustained a twisted knee along with some bruising after he was pushed to the ground trying to protect his property.
Blinded in Iwo Jima when he was 20 years old, he could not identify the vandals.
While serving in World War 2, Banks was blinded at the young age of 20 years old by a flare.
Flash blindness, damage to the retina of the eye from a bright flash, is commonly temporary but if bright enough can cause permanent damage and blindness (Atomic Archive).
Due to this impaired vision, he could not see those who came to damage his property.
Fellow Marines support and honor the 92-year-old assault survivor.
Banks, who was open and shared about his experience, was visited by a group of fellow Marines who were moved by his bravery and loyalty to his country.
They came and spent the day with him, exchanging their stories and connecting over their common interests.
They made sure that during a time that could discourage him, he was showered with honor, love, and support.
It was arranged for Banks to be later flown to Washington D.C. to visit the World War 2 Memorial.
Police investigate the assault on the war veteran.
The police prompted an investigation for the assault on Banks, and the Kaufman Police Department stated they would do everything within their ability to seek justice.
Additionally, Banks has installed cameras to ensure the safety of himself, his flags, and his home.
His show of patriotism inspires the community.
The story of Howard Banks’ unwavering love for his country, even in the face of violence, has inspired many and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women.
His story is a testament to the resilience and patriotism of our nation’s veterans.
As one of the 167,284 World War 2 veterans left, we continue to honor and thank him alongside the other 16.5 million veterans for their sacrifice that allows us the freedom we live in every day.
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