Field of Flags comes to Owatonna for America’s 250th, 9/11 anniversary
It’s being billed as one of the most moving and inspiring displays Owatonna has ever seen.
A thousand American flags will be displayed Sept. 11-13 at Owatonna Degner Regional Airport as part of a tribute to the 25th anniversary of 9/11. The flags will stand on 7 1/2 -foot white flagstaffs across the grounds of the airport, creating a breathtaking panorama of red, white and blue
In addition to 9/11, the display will mark America’s 250th anniversary. Each flag represents a life of service and a story worth remembering.
Organizers say walking among the rows of waving flags is an experience that words can hardly capture. It is a place for reflection, gratitude and unity to honor those who have served and sacrificed for America.
A special dedication ceremony will take place on Sept. 12 at 1 p.m. where more than 1,000 people are expected to attend. Details of the ceremony have not been finalized, said Randy Sobrack of the organizing committee. The speaker for the event will be an impersonator of President Thomas Jefferson, according to Lynn Limberg, the event co-chair, along with patriotic music.
Shuttle service will be provided to the airport from Bass Pro, Sobrack said. Special handicapped transportation will also be available.
The flags will be dedicated in honor of local heroes who have made a difference in lives and also to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 25th anniversary of the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. It is being organized by the four Exchange Clubs in Steele County: Exchange Club of Medford, Moonlighters Exchange Club of Owatonna, Exchange Club of Owatonna and Exchange Club of Steele County.
The Field of Honor is free and open to the public, welcoming visitors of all ages to experience a stunning and powerful patriotic display; honor veterans, active-duty service members, and personal heroes; as well as reflect on the legacy of 9/11 and those who protect our freedoms and share a meaningful community moment with family and friends, according to the four Exchange Clubs.
The Field of Flags is a project of the National Exchange Clubs.
There is still time to buy a flag, volunteer to help on Sept. 12, and business sponsors are still welcome, Limberg said. Flags can be purchased for $50, she said. More details are available at www.healingfield.org/event/Owatonna-MN.
Limberg said that any money raised above the cost of the project will be given to the four Exchange Clubs to use for their core projects preventing child abuse, Americanism, community involvement and youth services.