Annual red, white and blue petunias planted in Brewster

Zearl Wilson and his sister Roni Flynn, both of Brewster, knelt in front of a well-used flower bed in front of Legion Park April 19.

Together the siblings were honoring their brother Lionel Wilson of Pateros, as well as all other United States military servicemen by planting a new collection of red, white and blue petunias.

"This is the American way," Wilson said. "I support our country. I believe in the American flag, in red, white and blue."

Wilson said he planted the petunias each year for the last four years, and did it four other years before that.

"I am proud to be an American, that's all," he said.

Wilson said the flowers were paid for through donations to the American Legion.

Wilson said he was very thankful for all the donations made for the annual patriotism project.

Michelle Lovato can be reached at qchreporter@gmail.com.