Arlington Memorial Gardens in Springfield Township is honoring the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces by installing a 10-acre field of American flags this Memorial Day weekend.
The "Field of Memories" will act as "a special area of tribute and to foster appreciation," says the cemetery and memorial park in a press release.
Arlington will be selling the 3-foot-by-five-foot flags so anyone who wishes to honor a loved one can do so. The $35 flags will feature "distinct colors of ribbons signifying whether the honoree is: buried at Arlington, a veteran, serving on active duty, or is a first responder or public servant, as well as those killed in action or killed in the line of duty," reads a release.
Flags can also be purchased to pay tribute to anyone — living or dead — whether they are a veteran or not.
More than 800 flags will be on display from May 27 through Memorial Day on May 31. Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily, with a special flag-raising ceremony at 12:30 p.m. May 30 and a moment of silence at 3 p.m. May 31.
“Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic changed how we had to do things, but during this sixth year of the event, we are excited to welcome the public back to honor, remember and celebrate the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation," says Arlington President Dan Applegate in a release. "Arlington’s open acreage, that is visible from Ronald Reagan Highway, serves as the perfect setting for the majestic and moving Field of Memories."
Proceeds from flag sales will be donated to Operation Ramp It Up, which installs wheelchair ramps leading to the homes of veterans, their families and others with disabilities.
Arlington Memorial Gardens is located at 2145 Compton Road, Springfield Township. For more information and to purchase a flag, visit amgardens.org, call 513-521-7003 or visit in person.
Arlington Memorial Gardens spans 165 acres and is "situated on land that was originally deeded by General George Washington to the Johnson family for services rendered during the American War of Independence," reads the release.
