Community Organizations Rally for Annual Flag Placement Effort, More Help Requested

Honoring Veterans who have passed is more than a longstanding tradition in Sheridan—it is a deeply rooted point of community pride. In the days leading up to Memorial Day, local organizations and volunteers once again came together to ensure every fallen Veteran received a flag at their headstone. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

According to the small volunteer group that leads the annual effort, the collaboration required to make the event possible begins long before the community gathers at the cemetery. One of the most significant tasks—and the one requiring the greatest support—is ensuring there are enough flag holders each year. Last year the supply fell short, prompting the volunteers to reach out to the Sheridan College Welding Program, a long-time supporter of the service project. Welding instructor Tim Anderson rallied multiple organizations to get materials and build 600 new flag holders.

After the flag holders were built and welded, they needed a protective coating to withstand the elements. Imperial Powder Coating owner Nate Barney, another repeat supporter, answered the call for assistance. Once the holders are ready, the volunteer group also meets up to count them and put them in Home Depot buckets—this year the effort was supported by the Sheridan VA Employee Association.

The local Home Depot team has supported in multiple ways throughout the years, including the donation of buckets and a replacement cord for a flag at the entrance of the cemetery one year. Boy Scouts then strategically place these bright orange buckets around the cemetery prior to flag placement, so community members don’t have to carry the heavy buckets filled with metal holders.

Volunteers also engage with Sheridan Media to share information about the scheduled flag placement and removal. Historically, flag placement has been the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. However, this year it was a week earlier than normal, due to a variety of factors. Flag removal will take place this Saturday, May 30, at 9 am at the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Volunteers are needed and are asked to show up to the cemetery prior to 9 am to assist with the removal of the flags.

Sheridan VA Public Affairs Officer Kristina Miller said there had been a Veterans Council that performed the planning and preparation work, but that council no longer exists. There are still organizations from the council supporting—Boy Scouts support preparations and American Legion Post 7 has stored the materials, for instance.

With the disestablishment of the council, volunteers are needed to keep this important act of remembrance going, whether individuals or groups. Donations of new flags are also welcome, as many must be replaced each year. Anyone who would like to support the planning of the event or donate flags is encouraged to contact Miller at 619-302-2893.