On May 21, over 37,000 American flags were placed on the Boston Common for Memorial Day. The flags were placed to represent every soldier from Massachusetts that died since the time America fought the Revolutionary War. Thousands of people flooded the Common on Memorial Day to visit the impressive sight and show their respect to the fallen and current men and women of the military.
The event is annually sponsored since 2010 by the Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund (MMHF) and Home Base, two non-profit organizations that support Veterans and their families. Home Base was founded by the Massachusetts General Hospital and the Boston Red Sox. The two organizations both formed as a result of the 9/11 terrorist attacks to support families. MMHF and Home Base merged together on April 4, 2024. In 2020, the amount of flags was greatly decreased due to the COVID-19 pandemic but it was back to its full size the next year.
The memorial was officially open to the public on May 22, holding a dedication ceremony. In previous years, the dedication has been held outside in front of the flags. However, this year the ceremony was held inside the Massachusetts State House due to the rain and overall incumbent weather. During the ceremony, families of service members that have died since 9/11 read out the names of their loved ones.
Viewing of the memorial was open from May 22 to May 26, with most people coming during the day on Memorial Day. Some came to remember and pay respects to fallen service members they knew, while others came to just witness the memorial. It was conveniently placed below the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, commemorating the Civil War. The memorial ended at 5 pm on Monday afternoon, and the flags were picked up by volunteers.
This memorial helps honor and conceptualize the many Massachusetts service members that gave up their lives for America. Visiting is a great opportunity to learn about American history, and is overall a great way to show your support. If you were unable to visit this year, the site will be there on Memorial day weekend next year.
