Southern Regional High School Memorial Day flags
The Southern Regional High School community comes together annually to honor the sacrifices of American service members who have lost their lives in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. As part of their Memorial Day tribute, students and staff plant thousands of American flags on the school’s front lawn, each one representing a service member who has made the ultimate sacrifice.


History of the Tradition

The tradition of planting flags at Southern Regional High School began over a decade ago, with the first ceremony taking place in 2012. Since then, the number of flags has grown each year, with over 7,000 flags planted in 2022. The ceremony is a poignant reminder of the true meaning of Memorial Day and serves as a way to educate students about the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.

The Ceremony

The ceremony typically takes place on the Thursday before Memorial Day and involves students, staff, and community members coming together to plant the flags. Middle school and high school students, as well as staff, participate in the ceremony, which is led by the school’s Air Force Junior ROTC cadets. The event is a powerful way to honor the fallen service members and provide a sense of community and unity among those involved.

Impact on Students

The Memorial Day flag ceremony has a profound impact on the students who participate. It provides them with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military and helps them develop a sense of respect and appreciation for their service. The ceremony also serves as a way to educate students about the true meaning of Memorial Day and the significance of the holiday.

Community Involvement

The Memorial Day flag ceremony is not just limited to the school community. The event is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and participate. The ceremony has become a beloved tradition in the Manahawkin community, with many local residents attending each year to pay their respects to the fallen service members.

Conclusion

The Southern Regional High School Memorial Day flag ceremony is a powerful and moving tribute to the sacrifices made by American service members. The ceremony provides a sense of community and unity among those involved and serves as a reminder of the true meaning of Memorial Day.

I am glad to see this, this weekend and this day in particular is a day to remember and honor the ulitmate sacrifice of those who served.