In the tradition of American Red Cross founder Clara Barton, local Service to the Armed Forces volunteers honored military veterans by placing flags on their graves at two local cemeteries ahead of Memorial Day. Following the Civil War, Barton led an effort to mark the graves of more than 13,000 fallen soldiers in Andersonville, Georgia—a legacy of remembrance that continues today. Photo slideshows from both local events are included below.
The Woodlands, Philadelphia
The first flag-placing event took place on May 9 at The Woodlands Cemetery in Philadelphia. Established in 1840 as a Victorian cemetery and arboretum, The Woodlands is now designated a National Historic Landmark District in recognition of its unique history and rich natural resources.
Tucked near the VA Hospital in University City, this hidden gem of the Philadelphia Parks system is the final resting place for veterans who served in conflicts spanning from the Civil War to more recent generations. Volunteers carefully placed flags to honor their service and sacrifice.
American Red Cross volunteers take a group photo before laying flags on graves at The Woodlands in Philadelphia. View more photos on Flickr. Photo by James Jones / American Red Cross
Lower Merion Baptist Church, Bryn Mawr
On May 16, volunteers gathered once again to place flags—this time at the Lower Merion Baptist Church Cemetery in Bryn Mawr. Approximately 270 veterans are buried at this historic site, which opened in 1811.
According to the church’s records, the cemetery includes the graves of 19 Continental Army soldiers, 16 veterans of the War of 1812 and 28 Civil War veterans. A full listing of the more than 3,000 individuals interred there is available through the Lower Merion Historical Society.
American Red Cross volunteers pose for a photo before laying flags on graves at Lower Merion Baptist Church. View more photos on Flickr. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross
Service to the Armed Forces
The American Red Cross supports the U.S. military community at every stage of service—from the moment a service member takes the oath, through deployments and transitions, and into life as a veteran. Across the globe, Red Cross teams provide assistance in military hospitals, on installations at home and overseas, and through local chapter offices in every state. In Southeastern Pennsylvania alone, the Red Cross delivered more than 1,100 services to military members, veterans, and their families last year.
Visit our website to learn more about how the Red Cross supports our military community.
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