The Naperville Memorial Day Parade along Jackson Avenue was lined with more than 60 American flags. When the parade unit for Operation Support Our Troops America passed by them, individuals carrying flags filed behind it. By the time OSOT-America marched along Washington, where spectators were 4-5 deep, all the American flags that had been in the 2009 Healing Field of Honor were following, reminders of two upcoming initiatives in support of the military, past and present.
First, Rockin’ for the Troops is scheduled for Sat., July 21, at Cantigny Park. Again, Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band will perform, headlining with The Voices and 7th Heaven.
Second, the Naperville Healing Field of Honor will return to Rotary Hill along the Riverwalk during the week of Veterans Day with 2,012 American flags such as the ones in the parade. In 2009, the awe-inspiring exhibit with 2,009 flags attracted thousands of visitors to pay tribute to veterans and their families.  For 2012, OSOT-America is partnering with the Exchange Club of Naperville, the Naperville Park District and soon-to-be named sponsors to present the Veterans Day exhibit Nov. 8-14.
Tickets to Rockin’ for the Troops are now available for $25 each. For more information, visit www.osotamerica.org.
The Women’s Auxiliary from the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 also carried American flags.
Thanks to Marty Walker of the Exchange Club of Naperville Americanism Committee for organizing the American flag unit for the Memorial Day Parade.
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