Memorial Day 2025

Today was one of the most powerful and humbling experiences I’ve ever had. I had the privilege of attending the opening day of the Glen Rose Field of Flags, and the display this year was unlike anything I’ve seen before.

Rather than rows or grids, the flags were set up in the shape of a five-pointed star, stretching across the field in front of the Glen Rose High School auditorium. Each point of the star was lined with American flags, each representing a fallen hero. In the center of the star stood a single, solitary flag—symbolizing the unity of all who served and sacrificed. Above it all, towering 120 feet in the air, flew a massive American flag that could be seen from nearly every corner of town. It moved gracefully in the breeze, casting a long shadow across the field and reminding everyone of the weight of the freedom it represents.

Each flag in the star had a pair of dog tags attached, personalized with the name and details of the service member it honored. I found myself walking slowly, reading each one, and letting the stories sink in. It was deeply personal—more than just a memorial. It was a message: we remember.

The opening ceremony began at 11:00 AM with heartfelt prayers led by a local faith leader, followed by a moving address from Congressman Roger Williams, who spoke about the profound sacrifices made by our fallen heroes so that we may continue to live in freedom. The ceremony ended as Taps played, and a missing man formation flyover passed overhead, casting a solemn shadow across the field. The crowd stood in reverent silence as a riderless horse made its way through the center of the star-shaped display. The moment was overwhelming—I could feel the emotion rise in my throat, and I wasn’t alone. People held one another. Veterans stood in salute. For a brief moment, strangers became neighbors, united in remembrance and gratitude.

What struck me most was how intentional the entire setup felt. The star formation, the central flag, the towering banner above—it all carried meaning. This wasn’t just about display. It was about remembrance, sacrifice, and community.

The Field of Flags will remain through Memorial Day, but those of us who stood beneath that 120-foot flag today, in the heart of that star, will carry this memory for the rest of our lives.

-Anonymous