A local World War II veteran and his family this summer attended perhaps the most significant baseball game they have ever been to.

Alfred M. Simon, a 91-year-old Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman’s Badge recipient for service in the European Theater, raised the American Flag at a Minnesota Twins game earlier this year. The Twins have dedicated their flag-raising ceremonies to veterans of all eras throughout this season.

Simon, who was born in Stacyville, Iowa and lives in Austin, said the event was special to him.

Simon raised the American Flag each morning and evening while in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) before serving in the Army. He is grateful for the program, which was a public works relief program during a time when there were few available jobs.

“It’s something I’m proud of,” he said about raising the American Flag.