Photo by Shelley Hanson Ogden Newspapers Wellness Weekend runners prepare to carry American flags during their races on Saturday in remembrance of veterans who cannot. From left are Keith Hixenbaugh of Weirton, Miguel Encinas of Bridgeport and Joe Foster of Shadyside.

WHEELING – Shadyside resident Joe Foster has been carrying the American flag during the Ogden Newspapers Half Marathon Classic on and off for the last 15 years.

He did it again on Saturday.

Foster, who served with the U.S. Marine Corps, said he does it to honor his fellow military members who have served the country, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.

“It’s for those who cannot carry the flag,” Foster said.

Foster said the first time he did the race he did not carry the flag, though he wanted to.

“Someone talked me out of it, but I kicked her to the curb and started carrying the flag,” he said.

“I have a lot of respect for the military.”

Foster was accompanied by two friends – Keith Hixenbaugh of Weirton and Miguel Encinas of Bridgeport – who were also carrying flags in remembrance of veterans.

Encinas said he has a few different American flags embroidered with veterans’ names who have passed away. His newest flag is embroidered with the names of soldiers who died during the military’s exit from Afghanistan.

“It reminded me of Vietnam,” he noted of the exit from that country and war.

Encinas, who served in the Army for 22 years, said he planned to run the 5K on Saturday. He carries his flags in a rucksack during races. He pointed out his shirt, “I ruck for the fallen.”

Encinas said he hopes others will have respect for those served year-round.

“Have respect for the military not just on Memorial Day, but every day,” he said.

Hixenbaugh, who described himself as a civilian, said he has carried a flag and ran alongside Foster for the last few years. He does it to support Foster and remember fallen soldiers during the Memorial Day weekend.