American Legion Post 204 is flying a special flag the month of January in honor of a fallen Marine who was also a minister.

This month’s flag, which flies in Veterans Park north of the Seminole Municipal Building, honors Larry Strickland, who passed away in 2021.

Strickland, also known to his loved ones as “Grandpa George,” was born Dec. 23, 1940, to Royce and Pat Strickland of Asher, OK. He was 80 years old when he passed away at home on July 13, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones.

Strickland attended Seminole High School, where he first met the love of his life, Phyllis. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps right after high school. Following his service, he went to Oklahoma Baptist University and became a minister. He also managed college cafeterias in multiple states. Strickland worked for Storage Technology as an IT technician. He and his wife later went on to own a hair care product distribution business for 20 years. He loved to ride his bike avidly, to the store, around the neighborhood, and just for fresh air and exercise. He loved spoiling his wife and his “fur-babies.”

The local American Legion post honors a different deceased veteran each month, part of a national effort to bring awareness to local fallen service members. All veterans that have passed away are eligible to be honored. To nominate someone, contact Post Commander Carl Odom at (405) 380-4615.