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Remembering Veteran Terry Hancock: The Heart Behind the Flag

U.S. Army Veteran Terry Hancock, known as the “Lake City Flag Waiver,” salutes from his usual corner, proudly holding his American flag.
U.S. Army Veteran Terry Hancock, known as the “Lake City Flag Waiver,” salutes from his usual corner, proudly holding his American flag.

By Katie Butler, Public Affairs Specialist

LAKE CITY, Fla. - For many in Lake City, the morning drive to work or school came with a smile, a wave, and a reminder of gratitude, all thanks to Terry Hancock.

Hancock, a U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran who called Lake City home for the past 50 years, became a local symbol of joy and resilience as the “Lake City Flag Waver.” Rain or shine, he could be found on the corner of Baya Avenue and Main Boulevard, proudly waving the American flag and greeting passersby with a smile.

His simple act of kindness began from a place of gratitude. After the death of his longtime partner of more than 40 years, a stranger quietly paid for her funeral costs. In an effort to say thank you, and with hopes that the anonymous Good Samaritan might see him, Hancock began standing on the corner with his American flag. What started as a gesture of appreciation became a daily tradition that lifted the spirits of countless Lake city residents.

“Terry reminded us that one person’s gratitude can ripple through an entire community,” said Vivian Esty, a nurse at the Lake City VA Medical Center who cared for Hancock on multiple occasions. “One man, one joyful heart, one grateful soul can touch so many.”

Hancock frequently visited the Lake City VA Medical Center for his health care, where staff and fellow Veterans came to know him for his cheerful demeanor and friendly conversations. Many made it a point to honk and wave when they saw him out by the intersection, a small way to return the kindness he shared so freely.

“Terry’s great joy in life was standing on the corner with his flag, waving and saying good morning, thanks to everyone that had a part in making him happy," said Joanne Hancock Mills, his sister.

Terry Hancock passed away on Oct. 27, 2025, at age 73 after a sudden illness. Though the intersection now stands a little quieter, the spirit of Lake City’s flag waver lives on in the smiles and honks of those who remember him.