Each year for the past 66 years, the 3rd U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard) has honored America’s fallen heroes by placing American flags before the gravestones and niches of service members buried at both Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Soldier’s and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery just prior to Memorial Day weekend. This tradition, known as “flags in,” has been conducted annually since The Old Guard was designated as the Army’s official ceremonial unit in 1948. Every available soldier in the 3rd U.S. Infantry participates, placing small American flags one foot in front and centered before each grave marker. Every year volunteer groups all over America gather at local National Cemeteries to carry on this tradition in their home town. In order to commemorate this proud tradition, the residents at Arbors Islandia West held a flag sponsorship and collected 51 flags to be placed in our courtyard honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
The cooking club made delicious strawberry poppies desserts in honor of the Memorial Day holiday. The treats were served during the afternoon social hour and were a big hit with everyone.