If you’ve ever driven by a field full of American flags, you may have wondered what it meant. This touching display honors our country’s brave veterans and brings attention to their meaningful sacrifice. While there’s no specific time to create this eye-catching exhibit, it’s common to see them on military holidays like Memorial Day and Veterans Day. 

In this article, we'll discuss why a field of flags is a powerful way to honor veterans and provide tips on how to create one yourself. When setting up your field of flags, you can partner with Carrot-Top to find everything you need. Carrot-Top’s premium products, such as our 9' spinning flagpole kit, make it easy to create a meaningful tribute in your community. Shop our selection now, or contact our Flag Pros for help creating your tribute.  

The Significance of a Field of Flags 

A field of flags holds deep significance, especially for those who have experienced the impact of war firsthand. During the Vietnam War, for example, daily casualty counts on television brought the realities of the conflict into homes across the country.  

This made people feel deep sadness and loss but connected to others at the same time. The sacrifices made by young adults serving in the military became a collective concern for the nation, regardless of any personal ties people had to the armed forces.  

In today's world, with news coverage spread across different channels and myriad conflicts unfolding in different places around the globe, the immediacy of war may feel less tangible for many. However, there’s still a strong sense of solidarity between service members and their families. They recognize the ongoing need for support and acknowledgment of the sacrifices being made by our country’s servicemen and servicewomen.  

The field of flags is a relatively new concept that’s grown in popularity. It acts as a powerful visual representation of American veteran’s sacrifice and patriotism. In 2021, at his presidential inauguration, President Biden installed a field of flags to represent his commitment to inclusivity and safety, making it easier for people to participate from home. Additionally, organizations like Honor and Remember will add specially designed flags with elements symbolizing different aspects of military service to these installations.  

What is the History Behind the Field of Flags Tradition? 

As we stated earlier, the tradition of creating a field of flags is relatively new but has quickly grown in popularity over the last few decades. There’s an extensive history of using flags within the military as symbols of respect and remembrance, as well as for identification, ceremonies, and honoring the fallen. 

However, large-scale displays to honor veterans and fallen soldiers is a more modern practice. There’s no specific date for when the first field of flags tradition started, but it’s common to see them on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day. These displays are a powerful reminder of the true cost of freedom and allow communities to collectively honor their local service members. 

Why the Field of Flags is Seen as a Symbol of a Post-9/11 World 

After the tragedy of 9/11, Americans gained a new appreciation for the bravery of our military members. As a country, we hadn’t seen a foreign attack on our soil for over a century or felt the intense threat of war since World War II. The attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon reminded us of the importance of our military servicemembers and helped reignite a deep appreciation for their sacrifice. 

A field of flags is a powerful way to honor veterans and American heroes. The September 11th field in Vernon, CT, commemorates those lost in the tragedy, while the Veterans Memorial in Jeffersonville, VT, pays tribute to those who served. Anyone, anywhere can create a field of flags to show gratitude for the bravery and sacrifice of our service members. 

How to Create Your Field of Flags 

Creating a field of flags is an easy way to honor local veterans, but there are a few things to consider. You will need permission from your city or town if you plan to use public property. You could also partner with programs like Disabled American Veterans or the Colonial Flag Foundation or host your own. 

For a smaller-scale display, you can create a field of flags in the front or back of your business. Once you have a designated area, you can simply place U.S. cemetery stick flags or full American flags in the ground in whatever arrangement you choose. 

If you know the names of the specific veterans or servicemembers you’re honoring, you can write them down and attach it to each flag. Many people choose to place their small American flags around a full-sized flag display for an even greater impact. 

Carrot-Top proudly offers everything you need to create a breathtaking field of flags, including spinning flagpoles, small American flags, and bulk order discounts. 

When Should you Set up a Field of Flags? 

While you can create a field of flags at any time, they’re typically set up around holidays like Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Veteran’s Day and 9/11. Seeing a field of flags is incredibly moving, and veterans truly appreciate the gesture. 

Create an Unforgettable Flag Display with Carrot-Top 

Carrot-Top is proud to offer the largest selection of top-quality flags to complement any flag display. Our cemetery flags with a pointed staff make placing flags directly into the ground easy. As the largest supplier of American-made flags and accessories, we’re committed to helping you show your patriotism and honor the brave sacrifice of those who fight to protect our nation's freedom. Contact our Flag Pros today and see how we can help you create an unforgettable flag display.