BOSTON — Tens of thousands of American flags planted on Boston Common this weekend act as a touching tribute to fallen U.S. service members and their families, in honor of Memorial Day.
More than 37,000 flags represent fallen service members from Massachusetts.
“It’s not a ‘Happy Memorial Day’, it’s reflecting on the people who have passed away during combat or otherwise,” John Burnett said while visiting the display.
Burnett, a veteran himself, is taking a moment to remember those he personally knew.
“A couple of my cadets,” Burnett said. “The cadets that went to East Boston High and have joined the military to serve and also have passed away,” Burnett said alongside Laura Romanowski.
“We try to come every year,” Romanowski said. “I think it’s very inspiring and it’s beautiful and people work hard to remember those who have paid the price.”
The annual flag garden is a reminder of what Memorial Day is all about - honoring service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
The profound display forced people like Chris Smith to stop and take it all in Saturday morning.
“I think it’s a beautiful tribute, although it’s so minimal compared to what they gave up, right?” Smith said. “When you come through here you can’t help but stop and remember what it may have been like for them and what it maybe continues to be like for the families.”
Hundreds of volunteers have planted the flags at the base of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument on the common since 2010.
The display is organized by the Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund in partnership with Home Base, a non-profit helping veterans and their families.
Anyone can stop by and pay their respects through Monday.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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