Now the Armed Forces Memorial Tribute Flag -- an image of a soldier's helmet atop a rifle, set against a stark black backdrop -- has been enthusiastically embraced by Musella and other local Legion members. ''As soon as I saw this, I said 'I'm taking this to the American Legion. It needs to be endorsed by the veterans themselves,' '' Musella said. The flag has been enthusiastically received and is awaiting recognition by the statewide American Legion organization, he said.

R. Ivan Hicks is commander of the Hasler-Kamp American Legion Post 215 in Pawling. His was the first post to endorse the flag. Hicks said its appeal has been universal. ''This flag commemorates those who have died in all wars,'' he said. ''When people hear about this, even in the simplest form, their reaction is 'Why hasn't this happened before?' ''

Earlier this month, District 9 of New York State American Legion, which includes Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester counties, unanimously approved a resolution urging the national American Legion to endorse the Tribute flag. ''The district approved it immediately,'' Hicks said. ''I think it's just going to continue to race up the ladder.''

Meanwhile, the Farrells are selling the flag as a way to bring the Armed Forces Family Aid and Relief fund -- which had waned once Operation Desert Storm ended -- back to life.

''It's astounding to see these men accept this with such open arms,'' said Marcella Farrell of the enthusiasm of local veterans.

Hazel Cathers, director of program services for USO of Metropolitan New York, welcomed the flag and the fund's return. ''I thought it was really, really special,'' she said of seeing the flag. ''It says don't forget any of them -- past, present or future. A lot of people have died to keep the flag flying and keep us free.''

-Poughkeepsie Journal Online Local News: www.poughkeepsiejournal.com