By Krystal Smalley
ksmalley@wbcowqel.com
There is no doubt of Jon Muchow’s patriotism. Every morning he raises the flag at Waycraft Industries, proudly says the Pledge of Allegiance, and caps it off with an “Oh, yeah!” before heading inside for a day of work.
The American Legion Post 181 recognized Muchow for his dedication Friday by presenting him with the American Legion Red, White and Blue Award.
“We heard that he goes out there every day – all kinds of weather – and he puts the flag up,” said Post Adjutant David Roberts. “We just thought it was well worth it, that’s what the spirit of America is and that’s why we gave him the Red, White and Blue award.”
Roberts and Chaplain John “Benny” Uhl presented the award and plaque to a surprised Muchow, who was once again promoting his American pride with a flag on his t-shirt.Muchow wasn’t much for words, but just as he salutes the flag every day, he proudly displayed his awards surrounded by his brother, coworkers, friends, and law enforcement.
“It just really warms my heart to see him because he’s so deserving of it,” said Chelsie Painter, Waycraft’s secretary and Muchow’s flag-raising assistant. “I think he’ll really hold that dear to him and be so proud of it.”
Painter said Muchow’s mother was not able to make it to the presentation due to health reasons, but she was tearful when Painter revealed everything to her prior to the presentation.
Muchow’s award was only part of Waycraft’s celebration. The program opened its doors for a lunchtime cookout Friday afternoon, inviting local law enforcement and mayors to tour the building and see exactly what Waycraft does.
“For many, many years, everybody knows about it, but it’s kind of a secret. That’s all about to change,” said Waycraft Industries Director Vincent Ponziani. “Our industry is changing and what that means is you’re going to start seeing Waycraft involved much, much more in the community.”
Friday was the start of that involvement as Ponziani took visitors on a tour of the old brick building on River Street. Inside, individuals worked on repackaging General Electric bulbs produced at the local Lamp Plant, creating boxes for the Timken Bearing Plant, or working on jobs for ESCO Bucyrus Blades.
“We’re very grateful to be a part of this community. We want to start giving back to this community and getting involved,” added Ponziani. “We just want people to come down and meet everybody. I want you guys to get a chance to meet some of the neatest people in the county.”
One of the reasons Ponziani is pushing for more involvement in the community is to give individuals at Waycraft a chance to show what more they can do. Ponziani pointed to the moment when those individuals stepped up to the plate and showed General Electric that they could handle the jobs thrown their way.
“Put up or shut up,” Ponziani explained. “Our guys put up – they met the challenge. These guys are no different than us. They want the same things, the same opportunities.”
He added that the brick building and its walls have been everything to the individuals at Waycraft for a long time, but it was now time to help them overcome another barrier.
“Give our guys a chance – they will amaze you,” Ponziani said.