Plano is once again turning Oak Point Park into a living tribute to the men and women who have defended our freedoms. From Nov. 7 through Nov. 14, the city and the Plano Flags of Honor Rotary Community Corps will install 1,111 American flags at the Red Tail Pavilion, each accompanied by a dedication card that tells the story of a veteran, active‑duty service member or first responder from the Civil War to the present day.

Why the event matters

“Every one of these 1,111 flags carries a name and a story,” said Event Co‑Chair Lisa Bloomer in the official release. “For 10 years, this field has given Plano a place to say thank you. In America’s 250th year, it reminds us that our freedom has always depended on ordinary people willing to serve.” The field, first raised in 2017, now stands as a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens for the nation’s liberty.

Schedule of activities

• Nov. 7 – Patriots Run 5K and Fun Run: The 5K starts at 8:30 a.m.; the fun run follows at 8 a.m.
• Nov. 7 – Plano Safety Fair and Touch‑a‑Truck: Open noon‑4 p.m., offering safety demos and a chance for kids to explore emergency vehicles.
• Nov. 8 – Colors of Courage Ceremony: A noon ceremony honoring service members.
• Nov. 11 – Veterans Day Flag Raising: Flags are raised at 8 a.m. to mark the national holiday.
• Nov. 14 – Closing Ceremonies: Includes Quilts of Valor presentations, performances by the Plano Civic Chorus and Plano Children’s Chorale, and a Scouts Flag Retirement Ceremony at sunset.

Additional attractions throughout the week include the Stars & Stripes and Vettes 4 Vets car shows, a Marine Corps birthday celebration, and a Patriot PAWS service‑dog demonstration.

Volunteer spirit

The event relies on more than 300 volunteers who help install the flags, manage the dedication cards and keep the field open around the clock. Founder Ean Sullivan described the experience: “There are misty, still mornings, flags whipping in the afternoon wind, the shared presence of a crowd during a program and at night, the soft chime of dog tags in the dark. The field is open around the clock, so visit often, because each moment honors them in a different way.”

How to participate

Visitors are encouraged to walk the field, read the dedication cards and stay for the nightly Taps at dusk. The event is free and open to the public, offering families a chance to connect with the stories of those who have served and to reflect on the freedoms they protect.

For a full schedule and more information, see the official Flags of Honor website.

Original reporting: Community Impact — Plano — read the source article.