The Flags 4 Freedom flag display, celebrated with patriotic programs and ceremonies, is created by an enthusiastic group of local volunteers. Everyone is invited to stop by during the week of July 4th to view an astonishing display of patriotism and community pride.
In 2006, the first-ever HEALING FIELD® in the State of Kansas was hosted in downtown Merriam. Over 1,200 flags were placed, and thousands of visitors visited the display over the three-day event. A patriotic program with a vintage warplane fly-over was conducted on the 4th of July. In 2007, Shawnee volunteers joined the Merriam group, extending the flag display along Johnson Drive into downtown Shawnee.
All proceeds from the Flags 4 Freedom event will benefit the Merriam Parks, Recreation, and Community Center Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization created in 1988. The Foundation supports City of Merriam parks, recreation facilities, and programs. Fund raising proceeds directly finance: youth and adult programs scholarships, purchases of equipment, purchases of original works of art for city buildings, summer concerts in Merriam parks and the Tim Murphy Art Gallery.
The flags were safely stored and protected from weather at no charge for many years thanks to the generosity of Merriam Feed, Lawn and Garden. The flags are now safely stored at the City of Merriam Public Works facility.