Idaho Falls memorial pays tribute to veterans
The Exchange Club of Idaho Falls is paying tribute to the military with the first ever Field of Honor Memorial.
More than 1,000 American flags cover Freeman Park, symbolizing the strength and unity of Americans.
“I think the American flag is probably the most beautiful flag. I mean, to see a whole field of them, it’s exciting,” said Jane Ahlstrom of Idaho Falls.
This Memorial Day, the sea of red, white and blue also represents the honor and courage of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
“They dedicated their lives to freedom, and that’s what its all about. Freedom here and freedom everywhere,” said Joe Robinson from Idaho Falls.
Family and friends also remembered loved ones today who went off to serve but never came home. “We’re told if we don’t remember our history, we’ll repeat it, and that’s certainly true. We have to remind ourselves of everything that the pioneers and military people have done to defend our land,” said Paul Ahlstrom of Idaho Falls. One placard stands between the flags at Freeman park. On it is a statement from former President Ronald Reagan. It says, “Some people wonder all their lives if they’ve made a difference. The Marines don’t have that problem.”
“We have the opportunity to come out and pay our respects to veterans that have served our country and all of our troops that our serving now. They will never be forgotten,” said Christina Rand of Idaho Falls.
The Field of Honor Memorial is also giving back to the community. The flags at the memorial today are sponsored by locals. The donations will go to helping child abuse victims and to the Bonneville County Crime Stoppers.
