OCEANSIDE -- Alex Kapitanski, known by most as simply "The Flag Man" of Oceanside, has filled a supporting role in tens of thousands of civic events. Tomorrow, if his health permits, the 87-year-old flag man will play a starring role.

The Oceanside Public Library will host a salute to Kapitanski in honor of Presidents Day, featuring a proclamation from Mayor Jim Wood, a short film tribute, a question-and-answer session and, of course, a flag display.

"For the first time, it's not 'Let's call Mr. Kapitanski to bring flags,'" said Brad Penner, adult services manager for the library. "This time he will be recognized himself."

Kapitanski estimates he has provided the community with more than 37,000 flag displays at graduations, opening days, memorial services and other events since coming to Oceanside in 1945.

Many people say he has been a source of inspiration to North County residents for generations.

"People come up and tell me, 'Your dad taught me about respect for our country and the American flag when I was just a kid,'" said Alex's son Albert Kapitanski, also of Oceanside. "'And now he's teaching my kid's kids.'"

Ever humble, Kapitanski is quick to shy away from the limelight. When asked what he thinks of being honored at the tribute, he replied, "I don't know" with a quick smile, then immediately started listing future commitments.

"There's girls' softball, Boy Scout League … Oceanside High School, Palomar College, National University," said Kapitanski.

Kapitanski's health is failing. Two recent falls resulted in cracked ribs and partial paralysis on his right side. Now confined to a wheelchair, the octogenarian refuses to slow down, and with the help of his sons, continues to provide flags for anyone that asks.

"I support all the presidents, our troops, men and women," he said. "When they call me to decorate, I come."

Organizers of Monday's event describe Kapitanski as a "local legend with a fascinating story."

Make that many stories.

The highly decorated World War II Army veteran has countless tales to tell from the years spent in Europe fighting Hitler's regime behind enemy lines as a reconnaissance combat photographer.

Tears fell as he recounted his experiences at Omaha Beach in 1944, where his division was the first to land in the bloody battle.

"We lost 80 percent of our men in ten minutes," said Kapitanski, clutching his heart.

A witness to many of the most significant moments in the Second World War, he said he saw many atrocities too difficult to speak of.

He earned a Silver Star from Gen. Dwight Eisenhower, a Bronze Star from Gen. James Hodges, and five Battle Stars, including one for the Battle of the Bulge.

Despite being encouraged to wait until after graduation, Kapitanski enlisted as soon as he turned 18 in 1942 with just two months left of high school. He returned to his hometown of West Rutland, Vermont after the war ended and graduated "with cap and gown and a younger generation."

But his devotion to his country began long before his war days. He recalls with fondness his first flag ceremony.

"Our Boy Scout leader wanted someone to carry the colors for a cemetery procession," said Kapitanski. "I proudly raised my hand and have been doing it for 75 years."

The tribute will take place at 1 p.m. Monday at the Oceanside Public Library Community Rooms, 330 N. Coast Highway. Kristi Hawthorne, president of the Oceanside Historical Society, will interview Kapitanski with audience participation welcome. The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Visit www.library.ci.oceanside.ca.us.