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Man Wins Fight To Erect Flag Pole

West Oak Estates Homeowners Association Initially Denies Request

POSTED: Wednesday, November 11, 2009
UPDATED: 7:00 am CST November 12, 2009

On Veterans day, people across the U.S. are honoring those who have served the country by proudly flying the flag.

But in San Antonio, which is known as “Military City USA,” one man was denied the right to erect a flagpole.

West Oak Estates is home to many current and former members of the military, many of whom like to fly flags.

"For one reason and one reason only, and that's to remember, respect and honor the men and women of the military," said Tom Vrzal, a 20-year Air Force veteran.

Vrzal found that wall-mounted brackets came loose quickly, so he asked his homeowners association for permission to erect a flagpole. His plan was a professionally installed pole costing nearly $700. His request was denied.

"Reference to proper lighting, concerns about torn or ripped flags,” said Vrzal. “And like I say, I'm retired military and I don't need anybody to give me flag etiquette."

"We've never really had a problem with any HOA," said Rocky White of Airborne Flag and Flagpole, the company selected to erect the pole.

White said his company has put them in similar neighborhoods with no problem.

"I think every neighborhood needs a good HOA, but it sounds like they may have just kind of out stepped their bounds a little bit," said White.

The KSAT 12 Defenders made a call to an HOA board member and the management company that runs the association.

Tom Vrzal said that must have turned the tide in his favor. He got an e-mail apologizing for any distress that has been caused by the denial. The e-mail also said the board has agreed to reconsider.

Soon after that, the flag pole was approved.

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