Each Memorial Day and Veterans Day, American Legion posts in Monticello, Lake City, Macclenny, Steinhatchee and Lee unite Florida’s 3rd District with flags, banners and crosses honoring hometown heroes. Legion members, volunteers and residents express gratitude for veterans’ service and sacrifice, preserving their memory and legacy of defending our nation’s freedom.
Otto M. Walker Post 49, Monticello – the Monticello Rotary Club and Post 49 display more than 35 veterans’ banners around the County Courthouse, including 14 sponsored by the post. Honorees include World War I veteran Thomas Bird Sr., the post’s first commander, and his son, Thomas Bird Jr. The partnership invites residents to honor veterans’ service and sacrifice for our freedoms, preserving their stories and legacy with pride and gratitude.
American Legion Post 57, Lake City – The Honor Guard now leads the veterans’ cross display, continuing a proud Post tradition. From a handful of crosses, the display grows each year, expressing gratitude for hometown heroes and honoring their service to our nation.
American Legion Post 83, Baker County, Macclenny – For eight years, “Heroes Forever” has preserved local heroes’ memory. Founded in November 2018 by Charlotte and Buck Oden and the Baker Conservative Women’s Network, it became a Post 83 program in January 2024. Nearly 900 American flags and crosses line 1.7 miles on both sides of U.S. 90 in Macclenny and Glen St. Mary, expressing gratitude for veterans’ service and defense of our freedoms. View their video at https://FLPost83.org/video.
Joe D. White Post 291, Steinhatchee – This cherished town tradition began in May 2018 with 176 crosses and flags and has grown rapidly to 627. The 291 Family and volunteers honor hometown heroes and the sacrifices of all who served.
Sgt. Howard C. Barker Post 422, Lee – The “My Hero” tribute began in November 2025 with 63 flags and crosses at Lee Town Hall. Now numbering more than 200 across Lee Town Hall and Dowling Park, the display unites the community in gratitude for veterans’ service, sacrifice and defense of freedom, preserving their legacy for future generations.