Flags for Heroes
What is Flags for Heroes?
In 2020, the Rotary Club of Burnsville held the first Flags for Heroes. It has become an opportunity for the community to come together and honor the heroes in our life. Over 400 flags are on display in the Burnsville town square the weeks around Veteran’s Day. Each flag is sponsored by a business or an individual in honor of a hero in their life. Each 3×5 flag bears a commemorative medallion with the name of an honoree, their service information, and the sponsor’s name. The sponsor of that flag chooses who it will honor and may keep or present the medallion to the honoree after the event as a keepsake.
Flags for Heroes is a national program, successfully hosted by various Rotary clubs all over the country. We are thrilled to join them in honoring the heroes from our community and beyond.
2025 Hero Celebration
Flag sponsorships will be accepted until October 20, 2025.
Date: Saturday November 8, 2025
Time: 12 Noon
Where: Town Square in downtown Burnsville, NC.
Please feel free to bring your own lawn chair as seating in the square is limited.
For several years the Mountain Piecemakers Quilt Guild has partnered with Rotary Club and has been an important part of this ceremony. We’re excited to announce that this year, they will be presenting 50 Hero Quilts to area veterans.
Medallions will be handed out to our named heroes following the ceremony. If you are unable to collect the medallion at that time, they will be available for pick up from The Farm Bureau office located at 316 E.Main Street.
Who is a Hero?
This is for you to define because we encounter heroes in many parts of our lives. Heroes can be veterans, public service officials, healthcare workers, educators, community volunteers, neighbors.
After Hurricane Helene’s devastation in September 2024, it’s a pretty good bet that everyone can think of someone who simply stepped up, filled the gap, and helped--or saved. Wearing courage and kindness like a shield, expecting nothing in return, this hero did something you didn’t expect, but that you desperately needed: clean water, food to tide you over, a tarp to cover your roof, a ride, information...The list is endless, and you remember those moments as treasures in the middle of hopelessness.
What is the cost to sponsor a hero?
For 2025, there is no cost to sponsor a hero. In light of the impact Hurricane Helene had on Yancey County, we want to ensure every hero receives the recognition they deserve. While sponsorship is free, donations are welcome for those who wish to contribute.
Donations can be made here or checks can be dropped off at the Farm Bureau office located at 316 E. Main Street.
Who will benefit from the event?
To date, the event has generated over $70,000 for local non-profit organizations.
All of the proceeds stay in our local community!
This years donations will be distributed to Reconciliation House and The Yancey County Volunteer Rescue Squad
