...But while Veterans Day honors all those who have worn American uniforms in combat, one Marshfield veteran was singled out Monday for special recognition. Mullen, on behalf of the board of selectman, named Nov. 12, 2002 George Earle Day in Marshfield. Mullen said Earle, the Veterans Day and Memorial Day parade organizer, and president of Marshfield Community Christmas, embodies the spirit of volunteerism.

Earle, embarrassed at the attention, yet thankful for the honor, said, "I enjoy what I do. It's nice that we're all friends."

Earle also took some time to advocate for the passage of a Constituitional amendment making it illegal to burn the American. Flag.

"I just don't think it should be desecrated in any way." Earle said.

Monday, Nov. 11 was Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 12 was George Earle Day.

During the annual Veterans Day service Monday, parade marshall George Earle, a 31-year resident of Marshfield, was recognized by the town with a commendation from selectman chairman Peter Mullen.

Earle said he was humbled by the distinction and gave praise back to the towns for recognizing veterans.

"It's nice that there are friends, and no one's a stranger," he said.

Among his many community contributions, Earle has been commander of the American Legion and president of the Marshfield Community Christmas Program. He is also a strong proponent of the amendment making it illegal to desecrate or burn the American flag.

On a day when American veterans are honored for their sacrifice, Marshfield's selectman bestowed a special honor on one of its most prominent veterans.

Amid the opening ceremonies of Marshfield's Veterans Day parade, Selectman Chairman Peter Mullen presented parade organizer George Earle with a proclamation making Nov.12 George Earle Day in Marshfield.

Earle, a 31-year resident of Marshfield, has co-chaired Marshfield's veterans council for 15 years and is a long-time organizer of the town's Veterans Day and Memorial Day parade.

Earle has also been the driving force behind Marshfield Community Christmas, one of the town's most prominent charities, since l990.

Earle, an Air Force veteran, thanked selectman and the town for the honor.

"For 31 years, I've been a part of this town," he said. "It's nice that we're all friends here. I believe that even strangers are just friends who we haven't met yet."

Earle also repeated his call for a flag amendment to the U.S.Constitution.

He said he admires the freedoms the American flag represents, but burning and desecrating the flag should not be one of those freedoms. Earle said there are plenty of other ways Americans can enjoy their freedom of expression.