There is a new centerpiece hanging on the mantle at the Nite Hawk Bar and Grill in Slater these days, courtesy of a very special customer.
Nite Hawk Bar and Grill owner Shawn Birdsall received a unique visit recently from Wes Vansickel, of Johnston. Vansickel rode his bicycle up the High Trestle Trail, along with a few of his military friends, to present a commemorative American flag that was flown over Shorab, Afghanistan, on Sept. 11, 2018. The flag was flown in honor of the Nite Hawk Bar and Grill.
Vansickel travels the High Trestle Trail frequently and is a loyal customer of the Nite Hawk. He and Birdsall have developed a “Cheers”-type relationship over the course of their visits.
“Once I found out he was a veteran, I always try and chat with him,” said Birdsall. “I knew he was still active, so I find that interesting.”