Honor Field opens in Springfield, raises money for veteran groups

Credit: DaytonDailyNews

From D-Day until Flag Day the front lawn of Jackson, Lytle & Lewis Funeral Home will be covered in a sea of American flags.

For the past eight years, the Honor Field has been erected to pay tribute to Americans who have fought for the cause of freedom, said Frank Lewis, an organizer of the event.

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“The Honor Field was created because of a desire to recognize local veterans organizations,” Lewis said.

On Tuesday a ceremony was held to mark the opening of the Honor Field. World War II Veteran Ed Malan, 96, spoke at the ceremony about being at Pearl Harbor during the attack. He also shared stories of his enlistment and his recent visit to Pearl Harbor.

When asked what people could learn from WWII veterans, Malan replied, “That freedom ain’t free.”

READ MORE: Hometown Vet: Springfield man saw the country, world with the Navy

The American flags that have been placed in the lawn by volunteers are more than just a patriotic symbol. Each flag was sponsored by either a company or individual and the proceeds gathered from this year’s field will go to Feed Our Heroes, Wagging Warriors and the Urbana VFW Post. Funds raised through sponsorship and flag sales over the past seven years total more than $35,000.

“It’s also our way to give back to our local veterans,” Lewis said.

The Honor Field will remain up until June 14.

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