Community members place flags at veterans’ graves ahead of Memorial Day

Annual tradition honors the service and sacrifice of veterans

Special to The Advocate

  Volunteers, veterans, students, city leaders and community members gathered at Glenwood Cemetery on May 12 and at Woodlawn Cemetery on May 14 to place American flags at the graves of veterans ahead of Memorial Day. The annual tradition was coordinated by the City of Everett’s Veterans Affairs Department under the direction of Veterans Affairs Director Erika Corbelli. Participants included Mayor Robert J. Van Campen, Ward 4 Councillor Holly Garcia, Fire Chief Joseph Hickey, Everett Public Schools Superintendent William D. Hart, school principals and staff, Everett High School Key Club students, veterans, firefighters and community volunteers. The flag placements honor the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces and provide an opportunity for the community to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of service members.

“Each flag placed represents a veteran whose service and sacrifice helped protect the freedoms we enjoy today,” said Corbelli. “This tradition is an important way for our community to pause, remember, and ensure those individuals are never forgotten.”

“Seeing community members come together for these flag placements is a beautiful reminder of how deeply Everett values those who served our country,” said Mayor Van Campen. “It is especially meaningful to see younger generations taking part in carrying this tradition forward.”

The City of Everett thanks all volunteers, veterans, students, educators and community members who participated in this year’s flag placements.