For nearly two decades, the act of wearing a red shirt on Fridays has been associated with a way to show appreciation and support for active military personnel and veterans.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4031 in Durango hopes to breathe new life into that tradition by urging community members to wear their red shirts on Fridays, but also by selling Red Shirt Friday merchandise at locations throughout town.
The nationwide Red Shirt Friday movement began in 2005, encouraging people to put political views aside and show unwavering support for troops and veterans. To be a part of Red Shirt Fridays, all it takes is wearing a red shirt on Fridays.
Jeff Punches, chairman of public relations at Durango’s VFW, says RED is an acronym for “Remember Everyone Deployed.”
The VFW began selling Red Shirt Friday merchandise on May 1, and Punches said he is eager to revive the tradition.
“The movement died down in Durango a couple of years ago, but we need to demonstrate continuous support for our troops that are deployed and the families that are a lot of times left behind,” he said.
In November 2014, former Durango mayor Sweetie Marbury proclaimed every Friday as a “Red Shirt Friday” in honor of the bravery and sacrifice of American military personnel. The VFW has not sold Red Shirt Friday merchandise since 2018; however, it has rolled out brand-new T-shirt designs with the resurgence of the movement.
The movement gained momentum over Memorial Day weekend when the staff at Star Liquors wore red shirts for the first time.
“We feel passionate about the VFW and want to support our community,” said Tamera Vermette, Star Liquors’ manager. “Our owner is a veteran, and we always want to stand for a good cause.”
Stan Crapo, owner of Star Liquors, was drafted to the military in 1966 and worked for the U.S. Navy branch until 1969. He is an avid supporter of veterans and the VFW.
Magpies Newsstand and Cafe also offers Red Shirt Friday merchandise for purchase, and the shop gives customers a 15% discount for wearing their red shirts. Serious Texas BBQ also offers a discount.
Another location selling the merchandise is Kroegers Ace Hardware.
VFW’s shirts are emblazoned with the slogan “Land of the free because of the brave” on the back, and “RED - Remember Everyone Deployed” on the front. Merchandise can be purchased on the VFW website or at Post 4031, 1550 Main Ave.
“Our troops are still out there and we can’t forget them,” Punches said. “We have 3,200 veterans in La Plata County in various levels that need to be supported.”
glanderyou@durangoherald.com
