The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is honoring and remembering the 26,000 airmen of the Eighth Air Force in World War II who never returned home with Flags for the Fallen: 26,000 Flags | One Mission.

This unique memorial flag garden of remembrance includes a 48-star American flag for each of the 26,000 men lost. The men of the Eighth in WWII served, and were buried, under this flag.

The public is invited to experience the garden from May 27 through Memorial Day, May 31, 2021.



The mission of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is to preserve and share the stories of the heroes of the Eighth; each of these flags represents a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Thursday, May 27


Opening Ceremonies for Flags for the Fallen
9:30 a.m.
General Lyle Rotunda

Mighty Eighth Veterans Panel Discussion


11:00 a.m.
Colonial Oil Art Gallery
Moderator: Museum Trustee, Brent Bracewell

Friday, May 28


Reading of the names of Eighth Air Force KIAS
Readings begin at 10 a.m.
Reading in Museum; exact locations TBD

Saturday, May 29


It’s Personal: Remembering a Relative Killed in Action
Speakers: Jerry McLaughlin and Brent Bracewell
11 a.m.
Flight Room

Sunday, May 30


Gold Star Family Recognition
1:00 p.m.
Chapel of the Fallen Eagles

Monday, May 31


Memorial Day Ceremony
1:00 p.m.
Colonial Oil Art Gallery (location subject to change)


All programs are open to the public and free with paid museum admission



Support Flags for the Fallen by donating your time and/or money at www.mightyeighth.org/flagsforthefallen. Thank you!