By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
It’s that time of year again, as red, white, and blue can be seen throughout the city with American flags adorning the City of Ozark’s roadways.
The City of Ozark has completed the installation of its annual Military Flag Display, with 903 American flags now lining several major roadways throughout the city as a tribute to the men and women who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces.
City officials announced the project’s completion in a social media post, describing the display as a visible expression of gratitude for the dedication, courage, and sacrifice of veterans and active duty military personnel.
The patriotic display comes as communities across the nation commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, offering residents and visitors an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifices made by generations of military members who have defended the nation’s freedoms.
The Chronicle spoke with Ozark Mayor Charles Ward about the significance of the flag display, and he pointed out the long relationship Ozark has had with the military and military families and he encouraged residents to carefully drive by and explore the many names of the flags lining the make roadways.
“I really believe it’s very important we recognize our people who serve in the military and those who have served in the past. As we prepare to celebrate the 4th of July, I think it’s an especially important time and great gesture to show gratitude to all the veterans and current active duty members for their service. This is the city’s way of showing our gratitude for all they’ve done and continue to do in service to the country.”
“I also think it’s nice to ride around and see all of the names and be able to recognize the names that we may know while learning about the ones we may not recognize. This program is just a great way for the community to learn more about the sacrifices they have made in service,” Ward added. “It’s also neat to see all of the many flags and being able to learn about which branch each person served in and learn about how they served our country.”
The flags are strategically placed along several of Ozark’s busiest corridors, creating a striking visual display for motorists and pedestrians alike.
According to the city, the flags are located along the following routes:
• Broad Street, on both sides of the roadway, honors veterans with last names beginning with A, B, C, and D.
• Eagle Way near Carroll High School, recognizing veterans with last names beginning with E, F, G, and H.
• South Union Avenue, from Gilland Chevrolet to the Dale County Jail, honoring veterans with last names beginning with K through P.
• North Union Avenue, from Roy Parker Road to the Municipal Complex, recognizing veterans with last names beginning with H through K.
• East Andrews Avenue, honoring veterans with last names beginning with P, R, and S.
• West Andrews Avenue, from U.S. Highway 231 toward Fort Novosel, recognizing veterans with last names beginning with S, T, V, W, Y, and Z.
The Military Flag Display has become a meaningful tradition in Ozark, serving as both a patriotic landmark and a reminder of the community’s strong ties to military service. Located just a short drive from Fort Rucker, Ozark has long been home to many active duty service members, veterans, and military families.
Previously some residents questioned why the flags were not put out on display for Memorial Day. The city pointed out that Memorial Day specifically recognizes those who have the ultimate sacrifice and died in the line of duty while the Flags honor everyone who has and are currently serving in one of the nations branches of the armed forces.
As Independence Day celebrations continue and the nation marks its semiquincentennial, the City of Ozark hopes the display will inspire appreciation for the men and women whose service has helped preserve the freedoms Americans enjoy today. The American Flag display occurs twice a year: the weeks leading up to the 4th of July and those leading up to Veterans Day.
