The Putnam County Veterans Service Agency is seeking sponsors for the county’s Row of Honor, the display of approximately 400 American flags that lines the shores of Lake Gleneida in tribute to veterans and military heroes.
The Row of Honor has become one of Putnam County’s most recognizable traditions, drawing residents and visitors alike to the lakefront during Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances. The display honors veterans, active-duty service members, and loved ones through individually sponsored American flags installed along the shoreline.
This year’s Row of Honor will once again return in time for Memorial Day, with sponsors helping ensure the continued success and long-term sustainability of the program. As always, volunteers will be needed to help install flags beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 16.
“The Row of Honor is a visible reminder of the gratitude our community has for those who served our country,” said Karl Rohde, director of the Veterans Service Agency. “Each flag tells a personal story and represents a life of service, sacrifice, and patriotism. Community sponsorships are what make this display possible, and we encourage residents to take part in preserving this important tradition.”
Originally developed through a partnership between the Veterans Service Agency and the Putnam County Joint Veterans Council, the display has grown significantly over the years. As interest has expanded, the county has implemented a more structured sponsorship process to ensure the Row of Honor remains sustainable and well-maintained for years to come.
County Executive Kevin Byrne recently signed local legislation officially codifying the Row of Honor into county law, ensuring its permanence as a fixture of Putnam County’s patriotic identity.
“The Row of Honor has become one of the most powerful symbols of remembrance and patriotism in Putnam County,” Byrne said. “By making it permanent through local law, we have guaranteed that future generations will continue to honor those who served. Sponsoring a flag is a meaningful way for families, organizations, and residents to participate in that mission.”
Sponsors may dedicate a flag in honor or memory of a veteran or service member. Each flag can be purchased for two years for $200, after which, the flag will be retired, sealed, and given to the sponsor as a gift. More sponsorship details, forms, and additional information are available through the County’s Row of Honor webpage at PutnamCountyNY.gov/ROH
Sponsorship applications may also be requested through the Veterans Memorial Park Office at 845-808-1994 or visit the office at 201 Gipsy Trail Road, Carmel,
Article provided by the County Executive's Office
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