In preparation for the 1890s Day Jamboree May 25-26, the citizens of Ringgold will fan out beginning at 8 a.m. May 16 to begin mounting 990 American flags along the streets of downtown Ringgold. Volunteers will meet at the former city hall to pick up flags.
"We need at least 30 volunteers to help," said Ringgold Mayor Joe Barger. "The flags represent citizens that lived in Catoosa County that served in the military and are now deceased. We put a cross up with their name by the flag."
Barger said families can request items to be placed on the cross like a purple heart or a short message. The flags will fly until they are taken down to be placed back in storage June 4.
"To honor those people that gave so much to defend this country makes me realize how blessed we are to still be free," said Barger. "My grandfather fought in the Civil War in North Carolina. I served in the United States Army in security intelligence."
Now Barger is a member of the local VFW Post.
"I want to honor those that had it harder than me," he said. "Many were wounded and killed. I was blessed to be spared from that."
Coming up at the 1890s Day Jamboree, spectators can view the American flags while enjoying free admission to the event. Participants can shop at more than 100 food, art and craft vendor booths. People can listen to live music while participating in music and dance contests, beauty pageants, a parade and a classic car show. Fireworks will serve as the grand finale Saturday night. To learn more, visit 1890s Day Jamboree on Facebook.