The soldier's eye never moved as he stood at attention surrounded in a cloth sea of red, white and blue.

Patriotism and a sense of sacrifice bring about that kind of reaction.

Yesterday afternoon, more than 75 organizations converged on and in Tacoma's Stadium High School's gymnasium for the area's 30th annual Massing of the Colors ceremony.

A small crowd formed in the bleachers and watched as the numerous and colorful flags representing American history from the Revolution to the present gathered on the floor.

The Puget Sound Chapter of the Military Order of World Wars sponsored the event, and retired Army Maj. Gen. John Hemphill served as the event's grand marshal.

"It is my honor to be here," commented Army veteran Franklin Hyke, a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 11762, Lakewood, Washington. "This event shows our patriotism to the flag, our country and those who have served and do serve."

>>> Alex Lemmer, a member of the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps at Stadium High School, holds the unit's colors. Photo credit: J.M. Simpson

>>> Muriel Parrish, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, proudly carried the chapter's flag. Photo credit: J.M. Simpson

Active duty, Reserve, National Guard, Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets, veterans and civic groups, and Boy and Girl Scout organizations and other groups were in attendance.

State Representative Dick Muri, Pierce County Council Member Doug Richardson, Steilacoom Mayor Ron Lucas and Lakewood City Council Member Mike Brandstetter also attended the event.

The youngest to participate in the ceremony was 7-year-old Tristin Kelly, who helped represent American Legion Post 264, Rainier, Washington.

Of note was the medal pinned to his vest.

"He received that for raising 3,600 box tops that he donated to a Rainier school for a new playground," his mother, Stacey Kelley, explained.

She said that her son would soon enter the Madigan Army Medical Center for his 17^th surgery since birth and would be hospitalized for 15 days to two months.

"He is very excited to be here," she added, "and we wanted him to have a good day."

>>> Tristin Kelley, the youngest to march in the Massing of the Colors ceremony, help represent American Legion Post 264. Photo credit: J.M. Simpson

The Puget Sound Chapter of the Military Order of World Wars is the only one in the Pacific Northwest, which includes Alaska, Oregon and Idaho.

For information about next year's ceremony, contact Col. Carroll Dickson at 253.566.5870.