To Honor & Remember
Traditionally, the end of this week provides one of the most beautiful sights of the year -- the Memorial Day Flag Garden on the Boston Common. Led by dear friends and the wonderful folks at Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund, the breathtaking tribute pays honor to the 37,309 Massachusetts' Fallen since the Revolutionary War. The seemingly endless sea of flags serves as a moving reminder of the cost of freedom and the scale of loss felt by loved ones.
Because of the pandemic, the Flag Garden is not possible this year. Instead, MMHF has created a number of ways to embrace the Memorial Day mission of honor and remembrance. Their highlight is a virtual Flag Garden, which Project 351 is very honored to support.
We invite you to join us and help MMHF reach their goal unifying the Commonwealth in remembrance through 37,309 virtual flags! Supporters can participate by printing a flag graphic and placing it in your window or on your door over Memorial Day weekend; planting a flag in your yard or garden; or sponsoring a flag via https://charity.gofundme.com/memorialday.
MMHF is collecting photos/videos of the virtual garden, so they can share with the families of the Fallen. They encourage folks to post a picture or video and tag @mamilheroes and use the hashtag #HeroesFlagGarden.
Our decade-long partnership with MMHF is one of our greatest treasures. Each year, we partner in support our their mission and our military community on Launch, Reunion, Memorial Day, and 9.11 Tribute Service. Over the last ten years, Executive Director Diane Nealon and Board Member Christie Schmitt Coombs have spent untold hours to educate and engage our young leaders.
The attached John Hancock video highlights one of our efforts and provides context from MMHF and families of 9.11 on the power of remembrance. And, of the strength families of the Fallen gain from tributes like the virtual Flag Garden.
We have greatest appreciation and reverence for our military, veterans, and families; and special love for MMHF and their team. Thank you for your consideration of support. 37,309 flags to honor the courage and sacrifice of 37,309 Fallen Heroes. An important tribute that is beautiful, meaningful, and possible.