Utica, NY – For Immediate Release – From November 4 through November 11, 2025, a
powerful display of U.S. flags will fly in solemn formation on Utica’s Memorial Parkway.
This remarkable display, organized by the Good News Center (GNC), local veterans
organizations and Sitrin Health Care Center, will unite our community as a heartfelt
tribute to honor our heroes. Each flag symbolizes an individual with the opportunity to
sponsor a flag in memory or honor of someone special for only $40. This event will
enable us all to remember and celebrate those who have served and are serving. The
U.S. flag represents our unity and shared commitment to building a brighter future
together. This moving exhibition is a gift to our community, made possible by generous
donations, sponsorships, and the hard work of dedicated volunteers.
“I truly appreciate The Good News Center’s hard work and thoughtful appreciation for
our military veterans.” Said Richard Smith, Facilitator of “Veterans 4 Worship
Program”, at GNC. “I am absolutely in awe when I drive by the field of waving U.S. flags
representing men and women who have served our county with valor, courage, and
sacrifice.”
Everyone in the community is encouraged to visit our Flags for Heroes Healing Field
patriotic display and walk among the flags that memorialize and/or honor our heroes.
“The Flags for Heroes on the Parkway is deeply meaningful to me and to many
veterans because of the powerful symbolism it carries. Each veteran who sees these
flags holds their own memory or meaning in their heart, but together the sight of
thousands of flags waving is overwhelming in the best way—it connects us more
deeply to what they represent.” Said Marine, Dan Clark, “Unlike flags on houses,
buildings, or at sporting events, this display is uniquely personal. Each flag is dedicated
to a service member, whether living or honored in memory, by family, friends, or
comrades. For me, it began with my mother, who always dedicated a flag for me, as
well as for her father, Raymond Freytag—an Army veteran—and my father’s father,
Ralph Clark—an Air Force veteran. Since my mother’s passing, my wife has carried that
tradition forward.” Clark continued. “This event ties together my service, my family,
and the generations who came before me. It reminds us that our mission at home is as
important as the one we carried overseas. And my hope is that it inspires future
generations to guard our country and its values with the same pride and attachment
we feel when we see the Flags for heroes.”
All proceeds from the Flags for Heros Event will benefit Sitrin’s Military Program.
The Program is designed to treat veterans and service members experiencing physical,
emotional, and cognitive issues. The program is different from conventional veteran
care, personalizing treatment options and social activities based on each individual’s
needs and interests. Those who have experienced traumatic brain injury, spinal cord
injuries, amputations, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, and other symptoms
have benefited from Sitrin’s unique approach to care.
Join us for our Recognition Ceremony on Saturday, November 8 at Utica’s Parkway
Recreation Center at 3 pm. Our guest speaker this year will be Major General Peter
Lennon, US Army, Retired. Peter Lennon is a native of New Berlin, New York. Upon
retirement, he and his wife, Elaine of Little Falls, NY, returned home to New Berlin. In
2021, he was written-in to serve as the Village’s mayor and was re-elected in both
2023 and 2025. In 2022, he was inducted into the New York State Veterans Hall of
Fame.
Lenon was the founding director of the Chenango County United Way’s Micro-loan
Program and is on the boards of Good Shepherd (Senior) Communities, Commerce
Chenango, “Feed Our Vets”, and the national “Our Community Salutes” program.
About The Good News Center:
The Good News Center is a Christian based nonprofit rooted in the values of Christ,
compassion, and community. Guided by our faith, we welcome all people and provide
programs, events and support group services that encourage spiritual growth,
strengthen families, and offer hope and help in times of need.
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