In the South Valley, Debbie Williams raised dozens of flags to remember those who served, including her son.
At the corner of Roeben Street and Walnut Avenue, rows of American flags stood tall as community members came to reflect and pay their respects. Since Friday, volunteers have placed the flags each morning and taken them down in the evening for the holiday.
"I love to come and honor all the fallen soldiers and the beauty of the flags and all the effort that went into it," said Kathy Yaeger, a Visalia resident.
For several years, Debbie Williams has placed 100 flags at the intersection each Memorial Day. This year, however, the display is larger.
"So I felt like it was a special year to honor 250 years of sacrifice by all of those who have sacrificed for the first 250 years, that's when I decided to do 250 flags," said Williams.
Some of the flags included tags recognizing service members who died in the line of duty. Williams and other volunteers began setting up the display at 6 a.m. each day.
"I feel a lot of joy about what they represent and that they do honor, and remember those who served and sacrificed," Williams said.
For Williams, the display is deeply personal. Her son, Keith Williams, died at 19-years-old while serving his country in Afghanistan in 2014. She said the flags help ensure that his sacrifice, and others like it, are not forgotten.
"We never want our kids to be forgotten," she said.
Williams is also active with the Central Valley Honor Flight, taking part in trips with local veterans. She said the experience has helped her stay connected to her son while honoring others who have served.
"We can make a difference by allowing them to realize just how appreciative we are of their service, which makes me feel filled with joy," she said.
The display inspires a sense of patriotism and pride.
"It makes me proud to be an American," Yaeger said.
The flags were taken down on Monday evening. Proceeds from sponsored flags will go toward a scholarship established in honor of Keith Williams for students at El Diamante High School.
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