VERMILION — More than 120 American flags are expected to soon line Liberty Avenue once again as volunteers with the Flags on Liberty committee spent this week preparing the annual patriotic display for the summer season.
Committee members gathered Thursday evening before heading out to begin hanging the flags throughout town. According to organizers, every flag from last year was inspected for damage, with worn flags replaced and poles repaired or rebuilt ahead of installation.
New America 250-themed flags recognizing the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence were also assembled and prepared for display.
The Flags on Liberty tradition was originally inspired by the late Paul Habermehl, whose vision helped establish one of Vermilion’s most recognizable patriotic displays. Residents can support the effort by purchasing Flags on Liberty fundraiser shirts through Main Street Threads,with $5 from every shirt sold going directly back to support the Flags on Liberty program.
Volunteers participating in this year’s preparation effort included Dean Mayer, Jason Denney, Bill Huston, Cliff German, Tom Knox, Brendan Newbill, Kirk Horton, Ken Phillips, Ryan Frizell, Lilly Denney, Jackson Denney and Carter Denney.
Organizers said the display would not be possible without volunteers and community donations that help cover the cost of flags, poles and maintenance supplies.
The Flags on Liberty program has become one of Vermilion’s most recognizable seasonal traditions, with rows of American flags displayed along Liberty Avenue throughout the warmer months.
