On Thursday, September 11, 2025, the sun rose gently over the Town of Orange Park, casting long shadows across rows of American flags fluttering in quiet tribute. Nearly 300 guests gathered indoors for the second annual Flags for Heroes ceremony, a community tradition that has quickly grown into something deeply personal and profoundly moving.

This year, 357 heroes were honored—a 64% increase from last year. Each name represented a story of service, sacrifice, or inspiration. From first responders and military veterans to teachers, mentors, and loved ones, the field of flags outside became a living canvas of gratitude. Together, the community raised $23,555 to support 16 local nonprofits and first responder organizations, doubling the impact of last year’s event.

Doug Conkey served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the program with warmth and reverence. The CCFHR Honor Guard presented the colors, followed by a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Ann Tabor of Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise. Green Cove Springs Police Chief Shawn Hines led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Dr. Johnny Thomas of CrossPointe Church Fleming Island offered a heartfelt invocation.

Proclamations from local, state, and federal leaders—including Jim Renninger, Rep. Judson Sapp, Rep. Aaron Bean, Senator Ashley Moody, and Senator Rick Scott—underscored the significance of the day. Guest speakers anchored the ceremony in lived experience.

Gene Wygal, a retired FAA Traffic Management team member, shared his memories of being on duty at Jacksonville Air Route Traffic Control Center on September 11, 2001. Vice Admiral (Ret.) Mark Fitzgerald followed with a powerful reflection on his role in the immediate defense of U.S. Northeast air corridors and his nine-month deployment supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Bell ringers and name readers gave voice to each tribute, creating moments of silence and resonance. Volunteers from St. Johns Classical Academy Interact and Ridgeview High School Interact assisted with logistics and guest support. Overflow guests joined via Zoom, thanks to the technical support of Lee and Randy.

Under the leadership of Duane Mallicoat and lead organizer Jenielle Holderfield, the ceremony unfolded with grace and precision. From commemorative coins to curated hero and sponsor lists, every detail was handled with care. Behind the scenes, Robin, Kim, Heidi, Linda, Alexandra, and Steve worked tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly.

Rotary Clubs from Orange Park Noon, Orange Park Sunset, Fleming Island, and Green Cove Springs stood united in support, embodying the Rotary spirit of service above self.

As the final notes of Taps echoed across the room and checks were presented to 16 deserving organizations, the morning came to a close—but its impact will linger. Flags for Heroes is more than an event. It’s a promise: that we will remember, that we will honor, and that we will continue to serve.

Planning for Flags for Heroes 2026 is already underway. If you’d like to be part of next year’s tribute, reach out to Duane or Jenielle. When a community comes together like this, every name becomes a legacy, and every flag tells a story worth sharing.