Capt. Ed Raschen didn?t have a hint as to the significance a patch of the American flag would mean to Xavior Burrow on a recent Saturday evening at El Charro Mexican Restaurant.
Raschen wasn?t aware of Burrow?s diagnosis of autism, and as such his fascination with all things military. He didn?t know that simple gift would spread far beyond the moment.
Raschen, Coffeyville, serves as a company commander at the Iola National Guard Armory and is in the midst of preparing a unit to deploy to the Middle East. Throughout his 13 years of military service he?s kept a small Bible in his uniform pocket. Inside, he keeps it stocked with two American flag patches.
Raschen is also a father and works as an assistant principal at Labette County High School. So children, naturally, have a special place in his heart.
In the course of his work with the Guard, Raschen said it?s not unusual to meet youngsters who seem to take a keen interest in their uniforms and what they represent. In such cases, Raschen will hand out one of his patches.
On May 25, he was on active duty because of recent flooding. He?d spent the day at the Armory and left for a quick dinner with a few soldiers. At the table next to the group, he noticed Xavior, who had been watching their every move.
As they got up to leave, Raschen handed Xavior a patch, saying, ?Hey, buddy. Here you go. Thank you for your service.?
Xavior, age 10, of Iola, has always been fascinated by flags and military uniforms, said his mother, Carmin Burrow.
As they watched the Yates Center Days parade on May 25, Xavior removed his hat and saluted every flag and soldier who passed by.
Later that night at El Charro, Xavior was especially excited to see the soldiers at the very next table. Raschen?s patch capped an already special day.
When Carmin Burrow relayed the story of her son?s big day on Facebook, she had a favor. They didn?t know Raschen, and asked for help in identifying him.
Eventually, friends connected her with Raschen.
When he learned Xavior would participate in the Special Olympics on June 1, Raschen sent him a message of good luck.
