Derby-Shelton Rotary Flies Flags To Honor Community Heroes

SHELTON, CT — The Derby-Shelton Rotary Club invites the community to celebrate and honor the heroes in their lives by sponsoring a flag in their name at a heartfelt and inspiring event.

According to a news release provided by the rotary club, this unique initiative recognizes individuals who have made a meaningful impact, whether they are heroes of the past or present.

Each hero’s name will be featured on a personalized medallion, which will be affixed to a full-size American flag. These flags will be prominently displayed at Shelton Veteran Memorial Park, according to the rotary club.

"This event is a beautiful way to show gratitude and pay tribute to the individuals who inspire us," Derby-Shelton Rotary Club President Lucy Andrade said in a news release. "In March 2020, at the start of COVID, a special nurse, Bonnie Kraft, made it possible for my mom and me to speak to my dad in his final days at Bridgeport Hospital. That last conversation meant the world to us. Bonnie will always be our hero, and I recognize her every year. Everyone has a hero who has touched their life in some way."

Event Details:

• Display Dates: May 24 to June 19
• Ceremony Date: June 14 at 11 a.m.
• Ceremony Location: Shelton Veteran Memorial Park (Canal Street, Shelton)
• Flag Sponsorship: More information is available at heroflag.org.

All proceeds from Flag for Hero go back to the Derby-Shelton community, according to the rotary club.

According to the rotary club, members presented a $2,500 check to the Derby Fire Department on April 24, and another $2,500 to the Shelton Fire Department on May 1 to help purchase Seek Fire Pro 00 Thermal Imager cameras.

These contributions enhance the departments' capabilities to better protect and serve the community, according to the rotary club.

"Join us in making this tribute a powerful symbol of unity, gratitude, and community pride," the release reads. "Let's come together to celebrate those who have touched our lives and continue to inspire us all."