KTKA

Topeka — "We started this several months ago. It actually began with us standing on a bridge of all places. Somebody suggested we should start doing random acts of patriotism," said American Legion Post 400 vice-commander Mike Kolbek.

A row of flags greeted motorists on I-70 in Topeka on Veteran's Day. The flags were held by members of the Legion Riders of American Legion Post 400 in Topeka, standing on the 6th Street bridge over the interstate.

"Somebody volunteers to grab the flag trailer and pulls it out here," said Kolbek. "We show up and we set 'em up and stand here and wave at people as they drive underneath the bridge. They honk, they wave, they give us the thumbs up, they hang out the windows, they come up out of the sun roof. They pull over on the shoulder and take pictures. And like I say they pull off the exit ramp and come up see what we're doing and oftentimes they join us."

And that's exactly how I ended up on a bridge - holding a flag - on Veteran's Day.

"Had a young man who lost both of his legs in Iraq and was on his way from Colorado to Walter Reed Army hospital with his parents," said Kolbek. "Got out of his car with his wheelchair and sat on the bridge and held a flag...wow."

And that is what brings the Legion riders out with their flags on Veteran's Day, or whenever they see fit.

"We don't do this for any reason other than to promote Americanism, to honor the U.S. Flag, to honor the United State of America, all the men and women who have served and those that are currently serving today," said Kolbek.

Ben's People turn up in all sorts of ways. If you know someone with a story to tell, call me at 785-215-8532 or send me an e-mail, bbauman@ktka.tv.