The community was invited to honor their heroes-veterans, teachers, first responders, or anyone who has made a positive impact-by sponsoring a flag in their name.
On Saturday, a formal ceremony honored these local heroes who have significantly contributed to the community. Dee Cutshaw, whose father, Frank Jacobs, was a flight surgeon in the Navy, shared her emotions as she looked over the field.
"It's a little breathtaking," she shared with ABC11. "Because you're just overwhelmed by all of this service and everything that was done by everyone who's represented here, which is hundreds of people."
The event recognized hundreds of individuals, including military veterans, teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders.
Todd Taylor, a former president of the Durham Rotary Club and an organizer of the event, said: "We've honored World War One veterans, World War Two veterans, Korea veterans, Vietnam veterans, and Operation Iraqi Freedom."
Rob Elmore, President of ABC11, honored his father, Ed Elmore, a World War II veteran, and his father-in-law, Bill Nolan, a Korean War veteran and former police officer.
"People like my father, Ed Elmore, who was a World War II veteran and a member of the United States Army. People like my wife's father, Bill Nolan, who was a U.S. Army Korean War veteran and later became a police officer when he returned home," Elmore said. "So this event means a lot to us, and we have flags flying for both dads today."
Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead also attended the ceremony.
"May we all strive to live with honor, duty, and the spirit of service exemplified by the heroes we celebrate today," he said.
The "Flags for Heroes" project serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who choose service over self. It inspires the community to honor their legacy and strive for a better future.
The project also serves as a fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Durham, with proceeds benefiting local veteran and youth programs.
The "Flags for Heroes" events began on May 18 with a Flag Raising and Volunteer Celebration. The day featured performances by the Southwest Elementary School Choir, a DJ, and the Durham Fire Department's ladder truck.
An online gallery is available to view these heroes or locate their flag placement on the field. Click here.
ABC11 is a proud sponsor of the Rotary Club of Durham's Flags for Heroes project.