(Seguin) — Community members are again being invited to honor military personnel, veterans and first responders during the annual Field of Honor display in Seguin.
The patriotic fundraiser returns this weekend, and organizers are now selling flag dedications that will be displayed as part of this year’s field at Faith Lutheran Church. Seguin will be only one of two locations in Texas in which a display will be available during the Fourth of July holiday.
Connie Ramirez, one of the event coordinators, says each flag dedication costs $35 and provides a meaningful way to recognize those who have served.
“To dedicate a flag, it can be dedicated to a military member, a veteran, a first responder. They are $35 to dedicate a flag. And what that means is we will tag that flag with the honoree’s name, branch of service, and the flag will fly in the field for the duration of the event,” said Ramirez.
Following the event, she says supporters get to keep the entire display.
“Once the event is over, the flag, the pole, and everything are theirs to take home,” said Ramirez.
Ramirez says proceeds from the fundraiser remain in the community and will again support local veterans.
“The money raised from these flag dedications — we always pick a veteran organization to donate the money to. So. this year it is going to the DAV Chapter 61 here in Seguin. And so, all the money stays local,” said Ramirez.
This year’s event marks the fifth time Seguin has hosted a Field of Honor display. Organizers say they will post 250 American flags in recognition of America’s 250th birthday celebration. In previous years, the display has featured between 700 and 1,000 flags.
Ramirez says community support remains important, even for those who may have previously purchased a flag.
“The point is to continue to honor these individuals, but also to help out the local veteran community. And that’s the purpose of the dedications of the flags,” said Ramirez.
She says dedications can also be made in honor of veterans and service members in general, rather than a specific individual.
The easiest way to purchase a flag is online through the Healing Field website at healingfield.org/event/seguin-tx. Organizers encourage those waiting until the last minute to contact a committee member directly because online purchase reports can be delayed. One of those committee members include Donna Smith at 830-534-5448.
Opening ceremonies for the Field of Honor which will include free hot dogs, ice cream and kids games are scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27 at Faith Lutheran Church. Faith Lutheran Church is located at 1326 E. Cedar St.