In the Tradition of American Red Cross founder Clara Barton, local Service to the Armed Forces volunteers placed flags on the graves of military veterans at two local cemeteries ahead of Memorial Day. After the Civil War, Barton led the effort to mark the graves of 13,000 fallen soldiers in Andersville, Georgia.

The Woodlands, Philadelphia

The first flag placing event was held on May 3rd at the Woodlands Cemetery in Philadelphia. Established in 1840 as a Victorian Cemetery and Arboretum, the Woodlands was designated a National Historic Landmark District in recognition of its unique history and rich resources.. This gem of Philadelphia Parks is hidden near the VA Hospital in University City. Veterans interned here served our country in conflicts since the Civil War.

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Lower Merion Baptist Church, Bryn Mawr

Next, on May 17th, volunteers placed flags on the graves of approximately 270 veterans at the Lower Merion Baptist Church Cemetery in Bryn Mawr. According to the church’s website, the cemetery opened in 1811 and includes the graves of 19 Continental Army soldiers, 16 veterans of the War of 1812 and 28 Civil War veterans. A full list of the more than 3,000 people buried at the cemetery is available from the Lower Merion Historical Society.

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Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces

The Red Cross provides support to our U.S. military community at every step of their careers — from the time a service member takes their oath to navigating life as a veteran and each event in between. You can find American Red Cross support of military communities across the globe at military hospitals, on installations locally and overseas and through local chapter offices in every state.

Last year, the Red Cross delivered 2,600 services for military members, veterans and their families in Southeastern Pennsylvania.Visit our website to learn more about our work.