Memorial Day is celebrated annually on the last Monday in May as a way to honor the men and women of our armed services who have died while in service to our country. Formerly referred to as Decoration Day, this day of remembrance originated after the Civil War as a way to honor those who had died on both sides of that conflict.

In 2005, the Somers Congregational United Church of Christ, located in Somers, Connecticut, searching for a way to show their support for our troops, came up with the idea of the Field of Flags. That first year, some 2,231 American flags were placed on the church grounds, and the following statement of purpose was published:

”The Field of Flags is a silent, patriotic and poignant reminder of the cost of war. Each flag represents not simply one casualty, but all the family members and friends who have been touched by that life now gone. They represent our respect for those who have served and are currently serving in the military and our hope for peace in the future, for a time when no one is called upon by our country to give the greatest sacrifice. Please continue to pray for the safety of all of our troops and for the families of the fallen heroes.”

Since that first observance in 2005, the Field of Flags has become a traveling memorial. Beginning May 4 and continuing through May 27, 2013, the Field of Flags has been on display on the front lawn of the Farmington Hills Church of God located at 25717 Power Road in Farmington Hills. (Power Road is the half-mile road between Orchard Lake Road and Farmington Road. The church is located just south of Eleven Mile Road.) The display is open to the public and honors all who have died in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, without regard for politics or religious affiliation. The names of the soldiers represented by each flag are listed.

The Field of Flags will remain on display until closing ceremonies at 7:00 PM on Monday, May 27. Click here for more information.

For more information concerning the origination of the Field of Flags, click here.

Have a safe, and memorable, Memorial Day weekend!