Flags of Freedom
Honoring, celebrating and remembering veterans on Memorial Day
Flags of Freedom is an annual partnership between United Way of the Plains and IAM & AW District Lodge #70 to recognize veterans over Memorial Day. 600 American flags were on display at the union offices for two weeks in May. The community was invited to participate by purchasing dedications in honor or memory of a veteran in their life. Proceeds supported United Way programs that benefit veterans, including Veterans Ride Free. Dedications will be published on this page through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2024.
VETERAN DEDICATION WALL
Dedications are organized by area of service, alpha order by last name.
JUMP TO A SECTION: Army | Marine Corps | Navy | Air Force | Coast Guard | Space Force
General Dedications
- Kansas Democratic Party Veterans & Military Families Caucus
This dedication was purchased by Kansas Democratic Party.
- Unknown Soldier
You made America proud – Judy Pierce - On Memorial Day, we thank all members of the military, in all branches, past and present, for all you give for our country: your devotion, your time, your family, your skills, and your very lives. – United Steel Workers Local #307, Topeka, KS
- In honor of all who served and sacrificed. Union Label appreciates your service.
- The labor movement honors all veterans and the more than 1 million active union members who currently serve. We thank you for your service. – Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO
ARMY
Honoree Full Name | Rank | Vet Name & Rank | Personal Tribute | Donor Full Name | Tribute & Donor Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
For all the Army veterans of Wichita | For all the Army veterans of Wichita | We served in Kansas multiple times and remember fondly our fellow soldiers who deployed around the world into harms way to protect our freedoms and American way of life. Ad Astra Per Aspera. | COL (R) Pedro and Veronica Najera | We served in Kansas multiple times and remember fondly our fellow soldiers who deployed around the world into harms way to protect our freedoms and American way of life. Ad Astra Per Aspera. - COL (R) Pedro and Veronica Najera | |
Loyd Edson Arbuckle | Tech 5 | Loyd Edson Arbuckle, Tech 5 | My father entered the Army at age 18 and served in the Pacific Theater from August 1944 until 1946. | Barry Arbuckle | My father entered the Army at age 18 and served in the Pacific Theater from August 1944 until 1946. - Barry Arbuckle |
Robert B Baldwin | 1st Lieutenant | Robert B Baldwin, 1st Lieutenant | I will always remember your dedication to our country. You helped keep America free. | Kathy Baldwin | I will always remember your dedication to our country. You helped keep America free. - Kathy Baldwin |
Farm Rome Bates | Master Sergeant | Farm Rome Bates, Master Sergeant | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Adam Bell | Adam Bell | Gwen Kochman | This dedication was purchased by Gwen Kochman. | ||
John Henry Bell | John Henry Bell | To my uncle. | Tamica Johnson | To my uncle. - Tamica Johnson | |
Oscar Bennett | Oscar Bennett | Lori Love | This dedication was purchased by Lori Love. | ||
Corey Jack Blanchett | Staff Sergeant | Corey Jack Blanchett, Staff Sergeant | Honored to donate for my veteran son! | Bonnie Simmons | Honored to donate for my veteran son! - Bonnie Simmons |
Danny L Boyes | SP5 ARMY 18th ENGR BGD | Danny L Boyes, SP5 ARMY 18th ENGR BGD | It is our honor to know Danny Boyes. He served in Vietnam from 1967 thru 1968. Danny not only served in the war he still continues to help veterans, one such way is through the Kansas Honor Flight. Thank you for your continuing service to your country. | Gary & Jean Hawley | It is our honor to know Danny Boyes. He served in Vietnam from 1967 thru 1968. Danny not only served in the war he still continues to help veterans, one such way is through the Kansas Honor Flight. Thank you for your continuing service to your country. - Gary & Jean Hawley |
Vincent David Buffolino | Spec 4 Lietenant from 1967-1970 | Vincent David Buffolino, Spec 4 Lietenant from 1967-1970 | Stationed in Berlin, Germany during the Vietnam War. Served admirably in Berlin for 3 years. He became the base’s (Berlin Golf & Country Club) assistant golf professional, giving golf instruction to many of his fellow troops stationed there. During his career, he gave instruction and played golf with several quasi-celebrities while the assistant pro there, including Eddie Lowery (Eddie caddied for Francis Ouimet who became the youngest ever U.S. Open Champion in 1913 at age 20 at The Country Club in Brookline, MA). Thank you for your service! | Josh Buffolino Family | Stationed in Berlin, Germany during the Vietnam War. Served admirably in Berlin for 3 years. He became the base’s (Berlin Golf & Country Club) assistant golf professional, giving golf instruction to many of his fellow troops stationed there. During his career, he gave instruction and played golf with several quasi-celebrities while the assistant pro there, including Eddie Lowery (Eddie caddied for Francis Ouimet who became the youngest ever U.S. Open Champion in 1913 at age 20 at The Country Club in Brookline, MA). Thank you for your service! - Josh Buffolino Family |
Lawrence Burkhart | Lawrence Burkhart | Served as a ship medic in the Pacific. In memory of Lawrence Burkhart. Thank you for your service! | Amanda Maier & Burkhart Family | Served as a ship medic in the Pacific. In memory of Lawrence Burkhart. Thank you for your service! - Amanda Maier & Burkhart Family | |
Dennis Ray Busher | Dennis Ray Busher | We love and miss you very much! | Michael Busher | We love and miss you very much! - Michael Busher | |
Refugio "Ray" Cervantes | Refugio "Ray" Cervantes, SFC | Refugio "Ray" Cervantes, SFC, Company D 42nd Tank Battalion, Combat Command "A" 11th Armored Division, WWII Battle of the Bulge & Korean War veteran, Refugio 'Ray' Cervantes. All your proud loving family - Mario & Kim Cervantes | Mario Cervantes | Refugio "Ray" Cervantes, SFC, Company D 42nd Tank Battalion, Combat Command "A" 11th Armored Division, WWII Battle of the Bulge & Korean War veteran. All your proud loving family - Mario & Kim Cervantes | |
Stanley Galen Chapman Jr. | Major | Stanley Galen Chapman Jr., Major | We honor our son for his service to our country. You are a great husband and father. God bless you. We love you. From Mom and Dad. | Stanley Chapman, father, and Monica Chapman | We honor our son for his service to our country. You are a great husband and father. God bless you. We love you. From Mom and Dad. - Stanley Chapman, father, and Monica Chapman |
Efren Chavez | Paratrooper | Efren Chavez, Paratrooper | In loving memory of my grandfather and to honor his service to our country. | Monica Chapman, granddaughter, and Stan Chapman | In loving memory of my grandfather and to honor his service to our country. - Monica Chapman, granddaughter, and Stan Chapman |
Forrest H Coleman Jr. "Nunie" | Forrest H Coleman Jr. "Nunie" | Nunie was a Medic in Vietnam. I can't imagine the horrors he dealt with both abroad and upon his return home in his service to this country. I'm extremely proud to say, that's my Dad!! Thank you and I love you. | Greg Coleman | Nunie was a Medic in Vietnam. I can't imagine the horrors he dealt with both abroad and upon his return home in his service to this country. I'm extremely proud to say, that's my Dad!! Thank you and I love you. - Greg Coleman | |
Grady Daugherty | Grady Daugherty | You have done your best. Let God do the rest! | Tamica Johnson | You have done your best. Let God do the rest! - Tamica Johnson | |
Jeff Daugherty | Jeff Daugherty | Thank you for serving in World War II. | Tamica Johnson | Thank you for serving in World War II. - Tamica Johnson | |
Donald Alexander Davis | Donald Alexander Davis | Honoring his service and dedication to doing the right thing because of his love for others. | Emily Juhnke | Honoring his service and dedication to doing the right thing because of his love for others. - Emily Juhnke | |
Norbert Dechant | Norbert Dechant | In honor of Norb Dechant who served faithfully in Europe during WWII. We cherish your memory. | Todd & Margaret Dechant | In honor of Norb Dechant who served faithfully in Europe during WWII. We cherish your memory. - Todd & Margaret Dechant | |
Adam Dickmyer | SSG | Adam Dickmyer, SSG | Operation Enduring Freedom. KIA October 28, 2010 near Kandahar, Afghanistan. | Brent Lewis & Sarah Lopez | Operation Enduring Freedom. KIA October 28, 2010 near Kandahar, Afghanistan. - Brent Lewis & Sarah Lopez |
Ron Draper | Ron Draper | Ron, your service to our country and our community is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your leadership. | Steve Dixon | Ron, your service to our country and our community is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your leadership. - Steve Dixon | |
Dwight D. Eisenhower | General, Supreme Commander, President | Dwight D. Eisenhower, General, Supreme Commander, President | It's an honor to recognize the namesake of the largest airport in the state of Kansas, Dwight D. Eisenhower. His service to our country is a testament to the values we uphold as a community: safety, security, and the greater good. | Jesse Romo | It's an honor to recognize the namesake of the largest airport in the state of Kansas, Dwight D. Eisenhower. His service to our country is a testament to the values we uphold as a community: safety, security, and the greater good. - Jesse Romo |
James Favreau | CSM | James Favreau, CSM | Thank you for your service in Korea, Berlin, and around the world, Dad. Your 30 years of selfless service to the nation shaped me into the person I am today. Love you, Jan Favreau Najera | Jan Favreau Najera | Thank you for your service in Korea, Berlin, and around the world, Dad. Your 30 years of selfless service to the nation shaped me into the person I am today. Love you, Jan Favreau Najera |
Allen Freeman | Army Communication Center Specialist | Allen Freeman, Army Communication Center Specialist | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Leonard F. Friedel | Leonard F. Friedel | In memory of my stepdad. | Sheila Konkel | In memory of my stepdad. - Sheila Konkel | |
Gary K. George | Gary K. George | Gone, but will always be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. Thank you for your service - Your wife, Leah, and daughters, Euria and Genai | Leah George | Gone, but will always be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. Thank you for your service - Your wife, Leah, and daughters, Euria and Genai | |
Michael Gerber | Michael Gerber | Michele Hennes | This dedication was purchased by Michele Hennes. | ||
Lou Gomez Sr. | Lou Gomez Sr. | Annie Murach | This dedication was purchased by Annie Murach. | ||
The Graytok Family | The Graytok Family | In honor of Chief Warrant Officer 4, Lewis Graytok, Sergeant Major, Kimberly Fox, and Sergeant First Class, Kevin Graytok. Thank you for your years of dedicated service to this country as a family. You are an example for all of us. | Abel Frederic | In honor of Chief Warrant Officer 4, Lewis Graytok, Sergeant Major, Kimberly Fox, and Sergeant First Class, Kevin Graytok. Thank you for your years of dedicated service to this country as a family. You are an example for all of us. - Abel Frederic | |
Albert Peter Hahn | Albert Peter Hahn | Entered Army in 1944 and sent to Spartenburg, SC for 5 weeks of basic training. Sent to England then onto France. Served in General Patton's 3rd Infantry. Fought in Battle of Bulge. Onto Germany and met up with the Russians. Served until end of war. | Albert J. Hahn | Entered Army in 1944 and sent to Spartenburg, SC for 5 weeks of basic training. Sent to England then onto France. Served in General Patton's 3rd Infantry. Fought in Battle of Bulge. Onto Germany and met up with the Russians. Served until end of war. - Albert J. Hahn | |
Chris Hake | SSG | Chris Hake, SSG | Operation Iraqi Freedom. KIA March, 24, 2008 in Baghdad. | Brent Lewis & Sarah Lopez | Operation Iraqi Freedom. KIA March, 24, 2008 in Baghdad. - Brent Lewis & Sarah Lopez |
Allan Hammond | Allan Hammond | Teressa Peart | This dedication was purchased by Teressa Peart. | ||
Lewis Haney | Corporal | Lewis Haney, Corporal | You are loved and you are not forgotten. | Susan Haney | You are loved and you are not forgotten. - Susan Haney |
James Earl Heskett | SP 5 | James Earl Heskett, SP 5 | Love, Darnell Holopirek | Darnell Holopirek | Love, Darnell Holopirek |
William E Hesser | Army Special Forces Green Beret | William E Hesser, Army Special Forces Green Beret | Served in serveral countries across Europe. Thank you for your service! | Sam & Tracy Cochran & Hesser Family | Served in serveral countries across Europe. Thank you for your service! - Sam & Tracy Cochran & Hesser Family |
Andrew Hovan | Andrew Hovan | Donna Lehane | This dedication was purchased by Donna Lehane. | ||
Sylvester F. Hovan | Sylvester F. Hovan | Donna Lehane | This dedication was purchased by Donna Lehane. | ||
Jack Ellis Howard | Jack Ellis Howard | Lori Love | This dedication was purchased by Lori Love. | ||
Jack Michael Howard | Jack Michael Howard | Lori Love | This dedication was purchased by Lori Love. | ||
Robert Killough III | Robert Killough III | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | Cargill Wichita | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | |
Carl Richard Kirkendoll | Sergeant First Class | Carl Richard Kirkendoll, Sergeant First Class | Thank you for your service. | Frankie Kirkendoll | Thank you for your service. - Frankie Kirkendoll |
Donald Charles Kunkel Sr. | Donald Charles Kunkel Sr. | A true hero who gave it all serving his country. Thank you, Red! | Melissa Kunkel | A true hero who gave it all serving his country. Thank you, Red! - Melissa Kunkel | |
Jackie Lehman | Jackie Lehman | Jackie served the majority of his time in Germany driving a tank. | Pat Lehman | Jackie served the majority of his time in Germany driving a tank. - Pat Lehman | |
Rose Marie Lopez | Nurse | Rose Marie Lopez, Nurse | My grandmother is a brave woman who enlisted in the army during a time that many women did not serve in the military. She served this country as a nurse in the army and her service took her all over the world. Very proud of her and her accomplishments. | Jenni & Matthew Heartfield | My grandmother is a brave woman who enlisted in the army during a time that many women did not serve in the military. She served this country as a nurse in the army and her service took her all over the world. Very proud of her and her accomplishments. - Jenni & Matthew Heartfield |
Thomas Lorenzini | CSM | Thomas Lorenzini, CSM | Dad, thank you for your years of active duty service and continuing civilian service to the U.S. Army. | Hans Lorenzini | Dad, thank you for your years of active duty service and continuing civilian service to the U.S. Army. - Hans Lorenzini |
Leon Jessie Maier | 1st Allied Airborne - Staff Sergeant | Leon Jessie Maier, 1st Allied Airborne - Staff Sergeant | Served in Europe and the Pacific. In memory of Leon Maier. Thank you for your service! | Maier Family | Served in Europe and the Pacific. In memory of Leon Maier. Thank you for your service! - Maier Family |
Raymond Massoth | 27th Infantry Division in WWII | Raymond Massoth, 27th Infantry Division in WWII | My grandfather was one of the hardest working men I've ever known. I love looking at the old pictures and reading the articles about his service. I am proud of him and miss him every day. Love you Grandpa! | Michele Grimm | My grandfather was one of the hardest working men I've ever known. I love looking at the old pictures and reading the articles about his service. I am proud of him and miss him every day. Love you Grandpa! - Michele Grimm |
Cliff McAllister | Cliff McAllister | In loving memory of my father and to honor his service to our country. Thanks dad. | Monica Chapman, daughter, and Stan Chapman | In loving memory of my father and to honor his service to our country. Thanks dad. - Monica Chapman, daughter, and Stan Chapman | |
COL Michael P. Morris | COL Michael P. Morris | Mike was one of the most outstanding officers in a regiment full of outstanding officers! | Rob Miller | Mike was one of the most outstanding officers in a regiment full of outstanding officers! - Rob Miller | |
Frank Murach | Frank Murach | Annie Murach | This dedication was purchased by Annie Murach. | ||
Janette Najera | Janette Najera | Appreciate your service then and your sweet friendship now! | Jean Berberet | Appreciate your service then and your sweet friendship now! - Jean Berberet | |
Pedro Najera | Colonel | Pedro Najera, Colonel | Thanks, Dad, for your 31 years of service including tours in Korea and Vietnam. Your selfless example continues to have a positive influence on me, and reminds all of us that our freedom is not free. | Peter Najera | Thanks, Dad, for your 31 years of service including tours in Korea and Vietnam. Your selfless example continues to have a positive influence on me, and reminds all of us that our freedom is not free. - Peter Najera |
Pete Najera | Pete Najera | Thank you for your military service and your current leadership successes as President and CEO of United Way of the Plains. | James Berberet | Thank you for your military service and your current leadership successes as President and CEO of United Way of the Plains. - James Berberet | |
Peter F. Najera | Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, 1987-2007 | Peter F. Najera, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, 1987-2007 | Thank you for serving our country and for leading the efforts in our region to create pathways to opportunity for all. #ForceForGood | United Way of the Plains Staff | Thank you for serving our country and for leading the efforts in our region to create pathways to opportunity for all. #ForceForGood - United Way of the Plains Staff |
Alex W Northrup | Captain | Alex W Northrup, Captain | In honor and memory of a caring and bright young man that was taken too soon. Alex's commitment to God, country, family and friends was an example for us all. Thank you for your service. | Darren Minks | In honor and memory of a caring and bright young man that was taken too soon. Alex's commitment to God, country, family and friends was an example for us all. Thank you for your service. - Darren Minks |
Preston Pannell | Preston Pannell | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | Cargill Wichita | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | |
Gerald Pike | Army Air Corp Lieutenant (1942-1945) | Gerald Pike, Army Air Corp Lieutenant (1942-1945) | In memory of Gerald Pike. Thank you for your service, Grandpa! | David Pike Family | In memory of Gerald Pike. Thank you for your service, Grandpa! - David Pike Family |
Lewis (Bud) Benedict Rinke | Lewis (Bud) Benedict Rinke | Served in Korea. In memory of Bud Rinke. Thank you for your service! | Maier Family | Served in Korea. In memory of Bud Rinke. Thank you for your service! - Maier Family | |
Michael Robinson | Sergeant 1st Class | Michael Robinson, Sergeant 1st Class | Thank you Dad & Grandpa for your service! | Keith & Denice Robinson & family | Thank you Dad & Grandpa for your service! - Keith & Denice Robinson & family |
Ernest Ola Rogers | PFC | Ernest Ola Rogers, PFC | We remember and honor Ernest Ola Rogers PFC WWII and all veterans who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free. All your proud loving family. - Mario & Kim Cervantes | Mario Cervantes | We remember and honor Ernest Ola Rogers PFC WWII and all veterans who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free. All your proud loving family. - Mario & Kim Cervantes |
Raymond Vernon Ross | Private First Class | Raymond Vernon Ross, Private First Class | What a day that will be, Grandpa. | Brooklyn Black | What a day that will be, Grandpa. - Brooklyn Black |
Jose “Eddie” Eduardo Roybal | SUSUASGD, SP4 | Jose “Eddie” Eduardo Roybal, SUSUASGD, SP4 | In loving memory of my Uncle and to honor his service to our country. | Monica Chapman, niece, and Stan Chapman | In loving memory of my Uncle and to honor his service to our country. - Monica Chapman, niece, and Stan Chapman |
Adolph Schamberger | Adolph Schamberger | Served as a medic driver stationed in the Phillipines. In memory of Adolph Schamberger. Thank you for your service! | Amanda Maier & Burkhart Family | Served as a medic driver stationed in the Phillipines. In memory of Adolph Schamberger. Thank you for your service! - Amanda Maier & Burkhart Family | |
Leonard George Schmeissner | SGT ER 55222894 ARTY-USAR | Leonard George Schmeissner, SGT ER 55222894 ARTY-USAR | In 1952 he entered the U.S. Army. He served in Korea during the Korean Conflict as a Section Chief of 40 MM gun crew in combat. He was awarded several medals. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he returned to the farm in Peck, Kansas. | Diane S. Hahn | In 1952 he entered the U.S. Army. He served in Korea during the Korean Conflict as a Section Chief of 40 MM gun crew in combat. He was awarded several medals. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he returned to the farm in Peck, Kansas. - Diane S. Hahn |
Fred Simon | Fred Simon | Fred was a patriot, business leader & Shocker who continues to inspire our students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. It's an honor to support his memory in a way that also helps provide his fellow veterans with some of the services they need. | Bobby Gandu | Fred was a patriot, business leader & Shocker who continues to inspire our students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. It's an honor to support his memory in a way that also helps provide his fellow veterans with some of the services they need. - Bobby Gandu | |
John F. Sloat | US Army Signal Corps | John F. Sloat, US Army Signal Corps | In memory of John F. Sloat who served during the Korean War. He never spoke of his time there but his sacrifices are countless. Thank you for your service, G-Pa. We love and miss you! | MaeLauren Hudson & Family | In memory of John F. Sloat who served during the Korean War. He never spoke of his time there but his sacrifices are countless. Thank you for your service, G-Pa. We love and miss you! - MaeLauren Hudson & Family |
John F. Sloat Sr. | US Army Signal Corps | John F. Sloat Sr., US Army Signal Corps | G. G-pa, thank you for your service. Although you never spoke of your time during the Korean War, we know you carried yourself with integrity and compassion in all that you did. With love and gratitude, The Hudson's & Sloat's. | MaeLauren Hudson | G. G-pa, thank you for your service. Although you never spoke of your time during the Korean War, we know you carried yourself with integrity and compassion in all that you did. With love and gratitude, The Hudson's & Sloat's. |
Charles Robert "Bob" Smith | Charles Robert "Bob" Smith | Bob served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He will be remembered for his servant's heart. Thank you for your service. | Bob served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He will be remembered for his servant's heart. Thank you for your service. | ||
John Terronez | John Terronez | Union Label appreciates your service. | Union Label appreciates your service. | ||
Jim Valentine | Jim Valentine | Jeffrey Porter | This dedication was purchased by Jeffrey Porter. | ||
William Vann | William Vann | To my beloved Grandfather...Thank you for your your service to our country and for always protecting me. | Teressa Peart | To my beloved Grandfather...Thank you for your your service to our country and for always protecting me. - Teressa Peart | |
Everett Ware | Everett Ware | Thank you for your dedicated service to our country. | Teressa Peart | Thank you for your dedicated service to our country. - Teressa Peart | |
Lawrence Watkins Jr | Lawrence Watkins Jr. | From the the Watkins/Basden/Benson families. | From the the Watkins/Basden/Benson families. | ||
Forest Wilder | Private First Class | Forest Wilder, Private First Class | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Weldon Wilkinson | Weldon Wilkinson | 1956- 1959: Basic at Fort Rucker Alabama as a helicopter mechanic; Stationed at Fort Belvoir Virginia Aviation Coordinator; Kept track of testing & flight time; Washington D.C ride check | Cody Wilkinson | 1956- 1959: Basic at Fort Rucker Alabama as a helicopter mechanic; Stationed at Fort Belvoir Virginia Aviation Coordinator; Kept track of testing & flight time; Washington D.C ride check. - Cody Wilkinson | |
John L Yoger | Sergeant Major | John L Yoger, Sergeant Major | In memory of John Yoger who served overseas during WWII. Thank you for your service, Grandpa! Love & miss you. | Denice Robinson | In memory of John Yoger who served overseas during WWII. Thank you for your service, Grandpa! Love & miss you. - Denice Robinson |
Robert Willett II | Robert Willett II | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | Cargill Wichita | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | |
Ben Witherspoon | Private | Ben Witherspoon, Private | Dad - We all love and miss you. Thank you for your service during the Korean War. Your grateful sons, Steve and Jeff | Jeff Witherspoon | Dad - We all love and miss you. Thank you for your service during the Korean War. Your grateful sons, Steve and Jeff |
MARINE CORPS
Honoree Full Name | Rank | Vet Name & Rank | Personal Tribute | Donor Full Name | Tribute & Donor Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
William R. Crow | William R. Crow | He joined the United States Marine Corps while still a young teenager and fought with the 1st Division in WWII, where he saw action as a communications runner and fought in the Battle of Peleliu. Bill returned to combat to serve his country again in the Korean War, this time surviving the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. In memory of Bill Crow. Thank you for my freedom and for your service Grampy! | David Pike Family | He joined the United States Marine Corps while still a young teenager and fought with the 1st Division in WWII, where he saw action as a communications runner and fought in the Battle of Peleliu. Bill returned to combat to serve his country again in the Korean War, this time surviving the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. In memory of Bill Crow. Thank you for my freedom and for your service Grampy! - David Pike Family | |
Kenneth Richard Decker | Kenneth Richard Decker | Thanks Dad for all you did. Your service was an inspiration. | Dana Decker | Thanks Dad for all you did. Your service was an inspiration. - Dana Decker | |
Ringo Jason Fanning | Corporal | Ringo Jason Fanning, Corporal | Cpl Fanning served on the USS Constellation as part of the VMFA 323 Death Rattlers (F/A18C jets) in support of Operation Southern Watch. Pilots Maj John C. Spahr & Cpt Kelly C. Hinz were lost from his squadron on May 2, 2005 in a collision over Iraq. | Laurie Hoffman | Cpl Fanning served on the USS Constellation as part of the VMFA 323 Death Rattlers (F/A18C jets) in support of Operation Southern Watch. Pilots Maj John C. Spahr & Cpt Kelly C. Hinz were lost from his squadron on May 2, 2005 in a collision over Iraq. - Laurie Hoffman |
Richard Fesler | Richard Fesler | Jennifer Szambecki | This dedication was purchased by Jennifer Szambecki. | ||
Edward H. Flood | Master Sergeant | Edward H. Flood, Master Sergeant | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
George Gilbert | George Gilbert | Michelle Presnell | This dedication was purchased by Michelle Presnell. | ||
Robert E Happy | Major | Robert E Happy, Major | Bridget Bowman | This dedication was purchased by Bridget Bowman. | |
Robert Happy | Major | Robert Happy, Major | Even at 86 years old, you are the sharpest and hardest working individual I know. I don't think there is anything you can't do and you prove that everyday. Thank you for your love and service to our country and to our family! | Brenda Phillips | Even at 86 years old, you are the sharpest and hardest working individual I know. I don't think there is anything you can't do and you prove that everyday. Thank you for your love and service to our country and to our family! - Brenda Phillips |
William D. Hunter | William D. Hunter | Reginald Thompson | This dedication was purchased by Reggie, Alicia, Mya, & Aniya Thompson. | ||
William (Bill) Lewis | William (Bill) Lewis | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | Cargill Wichita | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | |
Margaret McAllister | Margaret McAllister | In loving memory of my mother and to honor her service to our country. Thank you Mom. | Monica Chapman, daughter, and Stan Chapman | In loving memory of my mother and to honor her service to our country. Thank you Mom. - Monica Chapman, daughter, and Stan Chapman | |
Frank C Oldfather | Navigator Bombardier Master Sergeant | Frank C Oldfather, Navigator Bombardier Master Sergeant | Dad was a proud Marine and lived life as a kind, gentle, honest, strong soul. Semper Fi. | Susan Oldfather | Dad was a proud Marine and lived life as a kind, gentle, honest, strong soul. Semper Fi. - Susan Oldfather |
Keith Smith | Keith Smith | Tori Price | This dedication was purchased by Tori Price. | ||
Hollis Stabler | Corporal | Hollis Stabler, Corporal | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Aubrey Samuel Summers | Aubrey Samuel Summers | Aubrey Samuel Summers | Aubrey served in the United States Marine Corp during WWII, and was involved in the campaigns on Saipan and Okinawa. | Marie Jones | Aubrey served in the United States Marine Corp during WWII, and was involved in the campaigns on Saipan and Okinawa. - Marie Jones |
Richard Mason Zimmerman | Sgt | Richard Mason Zimmerman, Sgt | Served in WWII primarily in the islands, including the battle in Tarawa. He was a young man of 18, who grew up to be a good father and my hero. | Renee Hanrahan | Served in WWII primarily in the islands, including the battle in Tarawa. He was a young man of 18, who grew up to be a good father and my hero. - Renee Hanrahan |
NAVY
Honoree Full Name | Rank | Vet Name & Rank | Personal Tribute | Donor Full Name | Tribute & Donor Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
David Babich | David Babich | I appreciate the sacrifices so many have made for our freedom. Thank you to all my relatives and all who have served our country. | Angie Prather | I appreciate the sacrifices so many have made for our freedom. Thank you to all my relatives and all who have served our country. - Angie Prather | |
Chad Blanchat | DT2 | Chad Blanchat, DT2 | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Harry Cassidy | Harry Cassidy | 1950- 1953: Joined Navy at 18; Basic at Great Lakes in Chicago; Stationed on a Destroyer Ship - USS Hugh Purvis; Served at Corpus Christy Texas guarding Blue Angels; POW for 18 months during Korean War | Cody Wilkinson | 1950- 1953: Joined Navy at 18; Basic at Great Lakes in Chicago; Stationed on a Destroyer Ship - USS Hugh Purvis; Served at Corpus Christy Texas guarding Blue Angels; POW for 18 months during Korean War. - Cody Wilkinson | |
George W. Chapman Jr. | George W. Chapman Jr. | Thank you dad for your service to our country and being the father that you are. Love you dad. | Stanley Chapman, son, and Monica Chapman | Thank you dad for your service to our country and being the father that you are. Love you dad. - Stanley Chapman, son, and Monica Chapman | |
Henry A. Druding | Henry A. Druding | For all who served, at home and abroad. You showed us the real meaning of loyalty and courage. | For all who served, at home and abroad. You showed us the real meaning of loyalty and courage. | ||
Clarence D. Forbes | Gunners Mate | Clarence D. Forbes, Gunners Mate | Terry Forbes | This dedication was purchased by Terry Forbes. | |
Emerson Freeman | Petty Officer (Gunners Mat) | Emerson Freeman, Petty Officer (Gunners Mat) | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Frederick Frazier | PN2 | Frederick Frazier, PN2 | You are loved and you are not forgotten. | Susan Haney | You are loved and you are not forgotten. - Susan Haney |
Dr. Richard Gurthrie | Lieutenant | Dr. Richard Gurthrie, Lieutenant | Was based in the Philippines. Delivered more than 300 babies while there 2 years. Deceased January 2020. | Diana Guthrie | Based in the Philippines. Delivered more than 300 babies while there 2 years. Deceased January 2020. - Diana Guthrie |
Seth Lubbers | Seth Lubbers | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | Cargill Wichita | Cargill Wichita thanks you for your service and your representation of our country. Your sacrifice is appreciated today and every day! | |
Joseph M. Menges | Joseph M. Menges | In memory of my grandfather. | Sheila Konkel | In memory of my grandfather. - Sheila Konkel | |
Richard Osborne | Petty Officer 3rd Class | Richard Osborne, Petty Officer 3rd Class | Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO | This dedication is on behalf of Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO. | |
Anthony Reed | Anthony Reed | My dad left his small hometown to join the Navy. His service allowed for me and my mom to have the opportunity to live in other places and put our family in a position to venture outside of that small town. Thanks dad! | Jenni & Matthew Heartfield | My dad left his small hometown to join the Navy. His service allowed for me and my mom to have the opportunity to live in other places and put our family in a position to venture outside of that small town. Thanks dad! - Jenni & Matthew Heartfield | |
Fonzy Lee Robertson, Sr. | WWII Navy Aircraft Carrier, Aircraft Mechanic | Fonzy Lee Robertson, Sr., WWII Navy Aircraft Carrier, Aircraft Mechanic | We would like to honor the service of Fonzy Lee Robertson Sr., our father, grandfather and great grandfather. Thank you dearly for setting an example for us to follow. With much love, David "Fonzy" Robertson and the entire Robertson Family | David Fonzy Robertson | We would like to honor the service of Fonzy Lee Robertson Sr., our father, grandfather and great grandfather. Thank you dearly for setting an example for us to follow. - With much love, David "Fonzy" Robertson and the entire Robertson Family |
Albert Tuttle | Albert Tuttle | Jeffrey Porter | This dedication was purchase by Jeffrey Porter. | ||
Matthew Wilson | Command Master Chief Petty Officer E-9 | Matthew Wilson, Command Master Chief Petty Officer E-9 | Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO | This dedication is on behalf of Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO. | |
Misha Wilson | Petty Officer 2nd Class E-5 | Misha Wilson, Petty Officer 2nd Class E-5 | Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO | This dedication is on behalf of Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO. | |
Walter Junior Whitson | Walter Junior Whitson | You made America proud. | Judy Pierce | You made America proud. - Judy Pierce | |
Terry Woolsey | EA4 | Terry Woolsey, EA4 | Terry Woolsey served with a 6 year contract as an Engineer starting in 1969. He served proudly and continues to support Veterans and stays involved in the Wichita community. We are very proud of Terry's dedication to preserving our freedom. | Natalie Merten | Terry Woolsey served with a 6 year contract as an Engineer starting in 1969. He served proudly and continues to support Veterans and stays involved in the Wichita community. We are very proud of Terry's dedication to preserving our freedom. - Natalie Merten |
Roger F Zackula | Roger F Zackula | Thanks for your service, Dad. We miss you. - Steve, Roxanne, Scott, Sam and Roxanne | Racine Zackula | Thanks for your service, Dad. We miss you. - Steve, Roxanne, Scott, Sam and Roxanne |
AIR FORCE
Honoree Full Name | Rank | Vet Name & Rank | Personal Tribute | Donor Full Name | Tribute & Donor Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
American Legion Post 256 Family | American Legion Post 256 Family | Frank Bialecki | This dedication was purchased by Frank Bialecki. | ||
Farm Rome Bates | Master Sergeant | Farm Rome Bates, Master Sergeant | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Neddy Beatty | Neddy Beatty | To my father...thank you for your service. | Teressa Peart | To my father...thank you for your service. - Teressa Peart | |
Tommy Bell | Tommy Bell | Gwen Kochman | This dedication was purchased by Gwen Kochman. | ||
Theron Black | Flight Engineer | Theron Black, Flight Engineer | Served in the Air Corps as a flight engineer with the 3rd Photo Reconnaissance Squadron making pre- and post-mission photo flights, helping mark targets in the South Pacific, China, and Japan. | Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO | Served in the Air Corps as a flight engineer with the 3rd Photo Reconnaissance Squadron making pre- and post-mission photo flights, helping mark targets in the South Pacific, China, and Japan. - Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO |
Eddie L. Cook | Staff Sergeant | Eddie L. Cook, Staff Sergeant | Union Label appreciates your service. | Union Label appreciates your service. | |
Elizabeth A Coons | TSGT | Elizabeth A Coons, TSGT | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Kevin M. Coons Sr. | SSGT | Kevin M. Coons Sr., SSGT | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Carson Crain | Senior Airman, SERE Specialist | Carson Crain, Senior Airman, SERE Specialist | Courtney Sendall | This dedication was purchased by Courtney Sendall. | |
Bryan Daley | E-5 | Bryan Daley, E-5 | It was an honor to serve with you. This time of year I always think of the sacrifice you made for this country. Love you brother. | Robert DeLeon | It was an honor to serve with you. This time of year I always think of the sacrifice you made for this country. Love you brother. - Robert DeLeon |
John Michael Davis | John Michael Davis | Honoring the selfless act of serving our country and sending my gratitude and love. | Emily Juhnke | Honoring the selfless act of serving our country and sending my gratitude and love. - Emily Juhnke | |
Rick Dixon | Rick Dixon | Dad, your service to our country came during a difficult time in our history. I appreciate the example you have set for service above self and dedication to looking out for others. | Steve Dixon | Dad, your service to our country came during a difficult time in our history. I appreciate the example you have set for service above self and dedication to looking out for others. - Steve Dixon | |
Wayne Ellis | Wayne Ellis | Thank you Dad for your service. | Carol Russell | Thank you Dad for your service. - Carol Russell | |
Ricky O Folgate | E6 | Ricky O Folgate, E6 | For a wonderful husband, father, sibling and friend. Thank you for your service to our country. We are proud of you. Love, K,R,L,C, & M | Kathy Folgate | For a wonderful husband, father, sibling and friend. Thank you for your service to our country. We are proud of you. Love, K,R,L,C, & M |
Gerald Gile | Gerald Gile | Gerald was a tail gunner in the B-17 bombers of WW2. He flew and survived many, many missions in the liberation of Europe from the Nazi regime! We miss you and love you every day!! | Greg Coleman | Gerald was a tail gunner in the B-17 bombers of WW2. He flew and survived many, many missions in the liberation of Europe from the Nazi regime! We miss you and love you every day!! - Greg Coleman | |
Mel D. Holopirek | Captain | Mel D. Holopirek, Captain | Love and admiration. From Darnell, Terra, Zman, Jemelle, Lander, Kary, Steele, Shaye, and Stratten | Darnell Holopirek | Love and admiration. From Darnell, Terra, Zman, Jemelle, Lander, Kary, Steele, Shaye, and Stratten |
Ronald L. Hovan | Ronald L. Hovan | Donna Lehane | This dedication was purchased by Donna Lehane. | ||
Col. James Jabara | Colonel | Col. James Jabara, Colonel | Honored to pay tribute to the namesake of the Wichita Airport Authority's GA reliever airport, AAO. Col. James Jabara was a triple ace who served in US Air Force, won several medals and awards, and had a very distinguished career. | Jesse Romo | Honored to pay tribute to the namesake of the Wichita Airport Authority's GA reliever airport, AAO. Col. James Jabara was a triple ace who served in US Air Force, won several medals and awards, and had a very distinguished career. - Jesse Romo |
Gene Lehman | Gene Lehman | Gene Lehman proud career Air Force non-com. | Pat Lehman | Gene Lehman proud career Air Force non-com. - Pat Lehman | |
Joyce Markley | E-6, Technical Sergeant | Joyce Markley, E-6, Technical Sergeant | Joyce, thank you for everything you have done to protect the freedoms we enjoy in this country. And thank you for everything you do to advance our mission to make south-central Kansas a better place for all. | United Way Community Impact Team | Joyce, thank you for everything you have done to protect the freedoms we enjoy in this country. And thank you for everything you do to advance our mission to make south-central Kansas a better place for all. - United Way Community Impact Team |
William C. Martin | USAF/RET Colonel | William C. Martin, USAF/RET Colonel | I love you Dad. | William Martin | I love you Dad. - William Martin |
Leon May | E4 | Leon May, E4 | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
A.W. McClain | Master Seargent | A.W. McClain, Master Sergeant | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Darrell Kent Minks | Master Sergeant | Darrell Kent Minks, Master Sergeant | In honor, gratitude, and memory of my brother. Thank you for your 23 years of service that included time in Vietnam and Desert Storm. Memory eternal. | Darren Minks | In honor, gratitude, and memory of my brother. Thank you for your 23 years of service that included time in Vietnam and Desert Storm. Memory eternal. - Darren Minks |
David Murach | David Murach | Annie Murach | This dedication was purchased by Annie Murach. | ||
Tom Pierce | Tom Pierce | You made America proud. | Judy Pierce | You made America proud. - Judy Pierce | |
Thomas J. Pity | aa | Thomas J. Pity, aa | This dedication was purchased by Service Employees International Union: Local #513. | ||
Robert D. Ruth | SMSgt | Robert D. Ruth, SMSgt | To a loving father, husband and American patriot. | Jessie Gorges-Sawhill | To a loving father, husband and American patriot. - Jessie Gorges-Sawhill |
Daniel C. Sloat | Captain | Daniel C. Sloat, Captain | Thank you for your selfless service to our nation. We are so proud of you, (f)Uncle Daniel! GBYAKYFH - MaeLauren, Matt & Baby E. | MaeLauren Hudson | Thank you for your selfless service to our nation. We are so proud of you, (f)Uncle Daniel! GBYAKYFH - MaeLauren, Matt & Baby E. |
Daniel C. Sloat | Captain | Daniel C. Sloat, Captain | In honor of my brother who served our nation as an Air Battle Manager on numerous international duties. Your commitment to our country and humanitarian efforts are to be admired. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do. | MaeLauren Hudson & Family | In honor of my brother who served our nation as an Air Battle Manager on numerous international duties. Your commitment to our country and humanitarian efforts are to be admired. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do. - MaeLauren Hudson & Family |
Dajahnae Vines | Senior Airman (E-4) | Dajahnae Vines, Senior Airman (E-4) | Gwen Kochman | This dedication was purchased by Gwen Kochman. | |
Sheila Wentz | Sheila Wentz | Steve Burt | This dedication was purchased by Steve Burt. | ||
Billy D. Williams | Billy D. Williams | Bill, we love and miss you every day. Your smile was infectious, your jokes, and the expectations you had for your grandkids and great grandkids will all be taken care of. You left not only a hole in our hearts but the community too. Till we meet again. | Lavonta Williams | Bill, we love and miss you every day. Your smile was infectious, your jokes, and the expectations you had for your grandkids and great grandkids will all be taken care of. You left not only a hole in our hearts but the community too. Till we meet again. - Lavonta Williams |
COAST GUARD
Honoree Full Name | Rank | Vet Name & Rank | Personal Tribute | Donor Full Name | Tribute & Donor Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Coast Guard PPC Command in Topeka | Coast Guard PPC Command in Topeka | Thanks to the 225 "Coasties" serving at the Pay and Personnel Center in Topeka that make sure all Coast Guard military members, retirees, annuitants and other customers are being taken care of and well served. | Thanks to the 225 "Coasties" serving at the Pay and Personnel Center in Topeka that make sure all Coast Guard military members, retirees, annuitants and other customers are being taken care of and well served. |
SPACE FORCE
Honoree Full Name | Rank | Vet Name & Rank | Personal Tribute | Donor Full Name | Tribute & Donor Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Braden Vining | Braden Vining | In honor of the first Kansan to be recruited into the U.S. Space Force, a branch of the military that started in late 2019 to protect the United States interests in space. Ad Astra Per Aspera. | In honor of the first Kansan to be recruited into the U.S. Space Force, a branch of the military that started in late 2019 to protect the United States interests in space. Ad Astra Per Aspera. |
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
Building & Construction Trades Council of Central & Western Kansas
Cargill Community Action Team
Dean E. Norris, Inc.
EPIC Insulation
IAM & AW Local Lodge #774
International Brotherhood of Teamsters Union: Local #795
Kansas AFL-CIO, Topeka, KS
Service Employees International Union: Local #513
Sheet Metal Workers: Local Union #29
Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace/IFPTE: Local #2001
United Teachers of Wichita
If your company is interested in sponsoring Flags of Freedom, contact Mario Cervantes, United Way AFL-CIO Community Services Liaison, at mcervantes@unitedwayplains.org or (316) 267-1321 ext. 4209, or Brooklyn Black, United Way Associate Director of Philanthropy, at bblack@unitedwayplains.org or (316) 267-1321 ext. 4127.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Mario Cervantes, United Way AFL-CIO Community Services Liaison, at mcervantes@unitedwayplains.org or (316) 267‑1321 ext. 4209.