Local man gives his unique support

Published 12:00 am Saturday, March 22, 2003

Austin Daily Herald

While 18-wheelers blared their horns underneath, Mark Gilbert felt a sense of pride.

The 34-year-old rural Austin man, dressed in military fatigues, braved Friday morning's wind and cool temperatures to hold an American flag on the 4th Avenue NW bridge over Interstate 90.

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Gilbert said he arrived at his post around 8 a.m. and was expected to stay until about mid-day.

&uot;I wish I could be out here for the duration, but I've got children at home,&uot; he said. &uot;I'd love to be here until everything is all over.&uot;

Passing motorists showed their support by bringing hot chocolate and coffee. As one woman dropped off a 21-ounce steaming cup of Joe, she said &uot;Thanks so much for what you're doing.&uot;

Gilbert said his mission was to show his support of troops who are stationed at home and overseas. Gilbert said he served in the gulf war and was also deployed to Haiti.

&uot;I know what it's like with the soldiers and with their families. I was in the gulf from 1990-91, so I know what it's like. I know what they're going through. They need all the support they can get.&uot;

Gilbert, who brought the flag from his house, said hearing car and truck horns and words of encouragement only help him in his cause.

&uot;Everytime somebody brings me hot chocolate or coffee or they wave, I feel a little warmer inside,&uot; he said. &uot;It makes me feel good as an American and for those who are proud to see the flag displayed.&uot;

Dan Fields can be reached at 434-2230 or by e-mail at :mailto dan.fields@austindailyherald.com