GAFFNEY, SC (WIS) - A
controversy involving a Bank of
America branch in Gaffney and
American flags along a motorcade
for a fallen Marine has some
mourners upset.
Lance Corporal Christopher
Fowlkes was killed in
Afghanistan earlier this month.
Fowlkes was remembered at a
visitation in Gaffney after his
body was brought through his
hometown. According to some, the
day was hurt by the actions of
Bank of America.
"I couldn't believe, in a small
town, that we would encounter
something like this," said
Brenda Earls.
Earls said she put some small
American flags in the bank's
front yard before the motorcade
came through. A bank worker came
out and pulled up the flags,
saying their display was against
company policy.
"I was really stunned and didn't
know what to make of it," said
Earls. "But, she said the reason
was also it would offend some
customers."
Once the bank realized their
mistake, the flags were allowed
back on the route. Bank of
America says this was all a big
miscommunication between their
corporate office and the branch.
The company said in a statement,
"The bank does fly the American
flag at our locations throughout
the country and flags were
displayed in front of our
banking center in Gaffney the
evening prior to our dedicated
Marine returning home. We deeply
apologize for any
misunderstandings."
One branch worker's
misinterpretation of corporate
policy has left some canceling
their accounts with the bank,
and Brenda still hurting.
"I never dreamed it would be an
issue," she said
1020 N. Medina Line Rd.
Akron, Ohio 44333
Phone: (330) 666-5846 Email:
Ellie@PatriotLady.com
