Clermont’s Old Glory Mobile unveiled

Clermont County has a new town crier mobile.

The Old Glory Mobile, as it has been named, was unveiled amidst much pomp and circumstance at the Lykins Oil Corporation in Miami Township March 20.

Last year, official county town crier William Knepp conceived of the town crier mobile idea while in Branson, Mo. with his wife Nancy. Knepp, after spotting a white pick-up truck that was patriotically decorated, was “instantly” inspired to create something similar. He talked to the man who owned the truck, took photos, and upon his return to Ohio, sketched out some drawings before approaching Lykins co-owner Jeff Lykins.

“I thought it was a great idea,” Lykins said at the unveiling. “And I knew that there has to be a way to make this happen. Lykins has a philosophy of giving back to the community and fortunately, we were able to make this happen.”

Lykins Oil donated the Old Glory Mobile, a PT Cruiser that will be seen at official functions, as in school lectures or parades, to Knepp to use as his official town crier car. It has been customized for the town crier's needs, including a platform stand, patriotic seat coverings, and a viewing roof.

"This is one of the highlights of my town crier career, of which there have been many," Knepp said. "Old Glory is very special because it is unique to Clermont County. There is not another one like it in the entire world."

Knepp, who just celebrated his 56th wedding anniversary with his wife, said that Old Glory, which will extend his town crier career an additional 3-5 years, will ensure that people by the thousands will continue to hear how great America is, something that the town crier is responsible for.

"This is one fine moment," Knepp said. "What we do here today, in the township of Miami, in the city of Milford, and in the county of Clermont, will carry not only to our streets, but from coast to coast - maybe even internationally. The Old Glory Mobile has reinvigorated me and reinforces my belief in democracy and the Constitution."

The Old Glory unveiling presentation included welcome remarks, introductions of notable dignitaries and elected officials, a presentation cry, the revealing of the mobile, and a formal acceptance ceremony.