This annual event starts Friday, May 24th, 2024 with a formal ceremony naming/dedicating each flag that will be on display throughout the weekend.
The Field of Honor Committee welcomes you to become part of this event by purchasing a flag in honor of those who serve or have served. Businesses, organizations, and church groups are encouraged to support the cause to honor and give thanks to those brave men, women, and their families. To become a sponsor, donate, dedicate a flag or volunteer, please visit the Pier-55 Red Wing Area Seniors.
Start your Memorial weekend by gathering in the north parking lot of Bay Point Park between the green space and marina before 6:00 p.m. for the formal ceremony. Each flag will be dedicated naming individuals who have served within various branches of the service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Army National Guard & Coast Guard). This ceremony will include Musical interludes, firing squad, salutes, and taps. Bring your own chair or blanket to sit on.
While the community unites in honor of their loved ones, neighbors, and colleagues, we welcome extended family and all visitors to enjoy the ceremonies and exhibits throughout the 3-day event. In memory of, in honor of and in support of all military soldiers, we remind those that this magnificent symbolic tradition is displayed with pride. Please be responsible and respectful when experiencing this annual tradition.
Dedicate a flag in honor or memory of one individual or recognize an entire military branch of service by purchasing flags thru the Pier 55-Red Wing Area Seniors.
Click here to dedicate a flag
Contact: Pier 55– Red Wing Area Seniors 240 Harrison Street, Suite 2 Red Wing, Mn 55066. 651-327-2255
The Field of Honor Event is free of charge and open to the public daily. We invite you to come with your family and friends to walk among the flags, taking the time to read the names of the individuals.
The flags will be on display 24 hours a day — rain or shine Friday May 24th through Monday evening May 27th.
May 27th – The Red Wing Memorial Day Association will hold a Memorial Day Ceremony in Bay Point Park from 8:45 a.m. to 10 a.m. The event will feature Master of Ceremonies, a color guard, guest speakers, musical interludes, a floral tribute with a firing squad and artillery salutes, and taps. Breakfast following the ceremony will be served to Veterans at the Red Wing American Legion.
Military memorials-other areas of interest:
- John Rich Park – In 1988 a memorial was installed within the park named Goodhue County Veteran’s Memorial: honoring all Goodhue County citizens who have lost their lives during military service. The granite memorial lists the names of each Veteran who was lost, by conflict/war. This park is in downtown Red Wing, at the corner of Hwy 61 and East/West Ave
- Memorial Park – In 1929 a memorial to soldiers of all wars was dedicated. Several local organizations worked to create the park and the land was donated to the City by the William Lawther family. A flag pole, stone gate, bronze dedication plaque, and cannon are located at the park’s entrance. Venture to the top of Sorins Bluff, accessible by vehicle from W. 7th Street to enjoy the several scenic overlooks of Red Wing and the Mississippi River valley below.
- Colvill Park – in 1965 a memorial was dedicated to William Colvill (1965 was the 100th anniversary of the charge). Colvill and his men led the famous Gettysburg Charge during the U.S. Civil War. The memorial consists of a large bronze plaque and limestone base. Colvill Park is located along the Mississippi River on the south side of town off Hwy 61 in Red Wing. Enjoy a picnic lunch, a public boat launch, playground, tennis courts and the city owned water park.
- Goodhue County History Center – Civil War Memorial established in 1913 and dedicated on Memorial Day. Addressed by legislature F.M. Wilson. Its $3000 cost was appropriated half by the county commissioners and half by popular subscription. Located at 1166 Oak Street in Red Wing. Also included a large collection of photos and other artifacts.