By Meg Hibbert
Contributing Writer
Two hundred American flags wave in the breeze in front of American Legion Post 3 in Salem, in honor and memory of veterans, first responders and others.
The lighted display sponsored by the Rotary Club of Salem was placed Nov. 2 and will be there through Nov. 16.
“We got the idea from the Rotary Club of Forest which has done a Field of Honor for several years,” said Steve Baker, event coordinator. The Forest club’s project has grown to 1,000 flags this year, including one for each Lynchburg Police Officer.
The Salem club hopes to increase the number here next year, said David Griffith, the field coordinator this year.
Club members and people in the community donated $50 per flag or up to $250 for a Patriot contribution, explained Debbie Hayes, who is chairman of the project.
Money goes to the club’s scholarship fund for high school students heading to college and other higher education, Griffith.
Veterans will be honored at the Field of Honor on Nov. 11, Veterans Day.
Hayes said individuals sponsored flags in memory or honor of veterans and current members of the military, in addition to first responders including police, fire and rescue members.
Ken Stallard, the sergeant at arms and security officer for American Legion Post 3, said, “We’re proud to have this display here this year.”
Hayes said the club obtained the initial permit from Colonial Flags.
