Over 900 flags cover the lawn in front of Cumberland First Presbyterian Church to honor our active military, veterans and to remember children who have lost their lives as a result of abuse or neglect.

The Jackson Exchange Club hosted its 17th annual Flags of Freedom dedication on Tuesday, Nov. 14 as a fundraising effort in support of the Exchange Club for the Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse.

The National Exchange Club focuses on Americanism, community service and youth programs, which is another reason why leadership got the idea for the flags of freedom display.

City of Jackson Mayor Scott Conger and Madison County Mayor AJ Massey were both at the event and presented a proclamation to make Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023 “Flags of Freedom Day” in Jackson-Madison County.

“What an honor to be here today and looking outside over 900 flags, and to think about what that does for tourism,” said Conger. “Thank you Exchange Club for doing this every year and thanks to First Presbyterian Church for allowing this to be done, this is a great display of patriotism in our city.”

Jackson Police Chief Thom Corley served as the speaker for the dedication, sharing his story about serving in the Marine Corps and his time working as an officer.

“As a result of not being able to go to the Naval Academy, I enlisted in the Marine Corps,” said Corley. “That gave me such a strong foundation for my life and for my future career. I didn’t know that at the time, but it did.

A veteran is a person who, at one time or another in their life, wrote a blank check to the citizens of the United States payable with their own life. There’s just something about being a part of something bigger than yourself. I think that’s what I love most about being a veteran.”

Music was provided by Joseph Montgomery along with The Ned Executive Director, David McCall and singer Ebony Taylor.