In a heartfelt ceremony, Charleston Mayor William Cogswell proclaimed September 24, 2024, as \"Michael Better Day,\" honoring the multifaceted contributions of Michael Better to the city and beyond. Better, a veteran, community leader, and flag football champion, has made significant strides both in military service and athletics, embodying the values of honor, service, and community.

Better enlisted in the Air Force immediately after high school, where he served six deployments and earned numerous awards for his leadership. After his military career, he settled in Charleston, where he became a traffic inspector and an advocate for criminal justice reform. His passion for flag football led him from local leagues to representing the United States at the IFAF World Championships, where he played a crucial role in securing victory for Team USA.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Better runs \"Flags For Us,\" a local flag football league in Summerville, South Carolina, aimed at providing opportunities for youth and adults to engage in the sport. He expressed his hopes of competing in the 2028 Olympics, where flag football will debut as an official event, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams.

During the proclamation ceremony, Better reflected on his journey from serving his country to representing it on the global stage. He expressed gratitude to his family, the city of Charleston, and his department for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of community in achieving personal goals. As he looks forward to the Olympics, Better remains a source of inspiration for many in Charleston and beyond.