Each Memorial Day, a powerful tradition takes place at Eastside Memorial Park in Minden, Nevada—one that turns a solemn holiday into a deeply personal tribute to the veterans who rest on these peaceful grounds.

At the heart of this tradition is a remarkable display of 110 full-sized American flags, each one once draped over the casket of a veteran buried at Eastside. These flags aren’t just symbols of service—they’re personal memorials, donated by the families of the fallen. 

After the funeral, families choose to donate their loved one’s burial flag to the cemetery, and each flag is lovingly hand-stitched with the name of the veteran by Eastside Memorial Park owner, Irene Shahin. This labor of love ensures that no name is forgotten, and every flag becomes a lasting emblem of a life dedicated to service.

Twice a year—on Memorial Day and Veterans Day—these 110 flags are flown high across the cemetery, transforming the landscape into a field of honor and remembrance. It’s a breathtaking sight, made even more meaningful by the stories stitched into every flag.

Complementing this larger display are hundreds of smaller American flags placed with care at the gravesites of veterans throughout the cemetery. These flags are generously donated by the local Elks Lodge, a long-standing community partner in honoring those who served. This year, around 450 veterans are recognized in this way, each flag a quiet but powerful reminder of sacrifice and valor.

This community-led tribute is more than ceremony—it’s a promise. A promise to remember, to honor, and to ensure that the legacy of every veteran at Eastside Memorial Park lives on.

To all the families who have shared their loved ones' flags, and to all who help make this tribute possible: thank you. Your generosity and commitment help keep history alive and the spirit of Memorial Day close to our hearts.

Lest we forget—freedom is never free.