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At the Fayetteville National Cemetery this past Saturday, dedicated volunteers upheld a time-honored tradition, by placing small American flags on every single headstone. This special

tradition known as ‘Flags In’ takes place every Saturday before Memorial Day.  And every flag is removed after Memorial Day, before the cemetery re-opens to the public. This year, despite a

steady rain, more than100 community members came together to participate.   Within an hour and a half, they had properly placed flags on every headstone in the cemetery. According to

protocol, each flag is placed exactly one boot length from the base of the headstone. Veterans salute and civilians place their hands over their hearts as they honor the fallen by saying the

Veteran’s name and thanking them for their service. Among the devoted volunteers was Army Veteran, Dwayne Glory, who attended the tradition with his grandchildren. Dwayne is passionate

about instilling in the younger generation the importance of honoring veterans. With unwavering dedication, he moved from headstone to headstone, teaching his grandchildren what to do as he

explained the significance behind each action. "This is what America is all about," Dwayne said, his voice filled with emotion. "I want my grandchildren to understand the

sacrifices others made for them.  Because of these fallen soldiers, we have freedom." The Fayetteville National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located on the southern

side of the city of Fayetteville in Washington County, Arkansas. According to the American Legion the cemetery occupies nearly 15 acres.  As of 2020, over 11,000 veterans and family members

were interred at this historic location.  Yearly, approximately 200 new burials take place.  The Regional Nation Cemetery Improvement Corp (RNCIC) announced at this year’s Memorial Ceremony

their donation of .41 acres on the south side of the grounds. This will ensure the future of the Fayetteville National Cemetery to remain open to our nation’s fallen heroes for years to

come. As Dwyane was finishing placing flags, he emphasized a profound truth shared among Veterans: "Veterans have two deaths, one when they die, and then again when people stop saying

their name." For Dwyane and many others, ensuring that Veterans are remembered is an ongoing mission. He stated, "This is not going to happen at the Fayetteville National

Cemetery," echoing the community's commitment to preserving the legacy of those who served. The ceremony at Fayetteville National Cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of the

enduring respect and gratitude owed to Veterans, ensuring that their names, and their sacrifices, are forever remembered.

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