Naperville Park District, in collaboration with Operation Support Our Troops – America, Naperville Responds for Veterans, Naperville American Legion Post 43, and Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873, will host the Naperville Healing Field of Honor from November 7-12 at Rotary Hill, 443 Aurora Avenue, Naperville. This is a free event where 1,500 American flags will be displayed on Rotary Hill creating a breathtaking tribute to military veterans, active service members and their families. In conjunction with the Healing Field, a replica of the Vietnam Wall of Remembrance will also be on display.
The multi-day event will begin with an opening ceremony near the base of Rotary Hill Thursday, Nov. 6 at 5 p.m. Additionally, a Veteran’s Day Observance ceremony will be held Tuesday, Nov. 11 beginning with a moment of silence at 11 a.m.. Attendees are asked to arrive prior to 11 a.m. to share in the moment of silence. The community is invited to attend both ceremonies to honor veterans and service members, past and present. During the ceremonies, and on each night of the display at 8 p.m., an honor guard will sound “Taps” and conduct a three-volley rifle salute in memory of the fallen. The volleys signify “duty, honor, and sacrifice.” “Taps” will also be sounded each evening at 5 p.m..
Individuals and businesses are invited to purchase flags to honor veterans and active service members. Each flag purchase includes a tag that buyers can personalize with a message for those being honored. Purchased flags can be picked up at the conclusion of the event for individuals to display at their homes or businesses. All proceeds will benefit the programs of Operation Support Our Troops – America and their mission to support and assist service members and their families. More information on flag purchases and sponsorship opportunities can be found at www.osotamerica.org/Naperville-healing-field-of-honor.
—Naperville Park District