Other Instructions
New and Re-fly flags may only be purchased online. Once purchased, your flag will be given a special location on the Field matched to your name. This location may be found at the Information Booth during 1-6PM during the event, or ONLINE? Returning or Re-flying flags from last year requires your online purchase and bring your flags to the Field between 1-6PM beginning November 9. Staff will assist you with placing your flags on the Field, but also attaching new ID cards and any photos or mementos to the flag. Staff will escort you as needed to place your flag on the Field. There is no way to purchase flags at the Field with cash. Please email us at vballcherf@gmail.com for other questions.

Placing & Caring for Photos & Mementos at the Field

Every year, families and friends place their flags on the Field. Over time, many are inspired to add photos, flowers, historical narratives and other mementos to enrich each flag's importance. These acts and items create a vibrant tapestry of service history that makes the Field so meaningful to so many.

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Based upon our years of experience, please consider the following care recommendations if you bring and leave anything at the Field;

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• DO NOT BRING OR LEAVE ORIGINAL PHOTOS OR OTHER DOCUMENTS. They will get damaged - even in a few hours of fog, rain, sun or wind.

• Do not leave anything irreplaceable or anything that will be damaged in the elements. While the Field is security monitored 24/7, there is never a 100% guarantee that the Field and its contents will not be subject to theft, vandalism or inclement weather. Shadow boxes, service medals, plaques, dog-tags, battle flags, or other service items cannot be expected to survive the entire event. 

• We encourage copies of photos and other documents be laminated against water damage. Local companies, like Staples, can make professional color copies and strong lamination for a small fee. We cannot copy or laminate items on the Field.

• Items are normally attached to the flag with a zip-tie. When laminating, ensure that a hole is punched in the corner for easy attachment to the flag, which also helps prevent water from damaging the document. See picture below.

• Flowers and other memoriam may be placed at the base of the flag, unless it obstructs pathways.

• The Field does maintain golf-carts to transport people or small items far into the Field.

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Flag Pick-up

 

NO NOT REMOVE FLAGS FROM THE FIELD YOURSELF

 

Before November 15, ​1-6PM - at the Field Information Booth.

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Saturday, November 15, 3 - 6PM - after Closing Ceremony - at the Field Information Booth.

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Sunday, November 16, 10AM til Noon - at the Field Information Booth.

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Monday to Friday, November 17 to 21, 9AM - 5PM - AAA Truck & Car Wash, 11 W. 15th Street, Merced. Bring names or other proof of flag ownership. 

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After November 21, any unclaimed flags will become the property of the Merced Sunrise Rotary Club Charity and will be sold in 2026.

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