During a recent city council meeting in Nixa, Missouri, heartfelt tributes were paid to fallen service members, with a particular focus on the Honor and Remember flag. Ron Sanders, a Gold Star father, shared the story of his son Andrew, who lost his life while serving in Iraq in 2007. He emphasized the significance of the Honor and Remember flag, which was created to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The flag features a red field symbolizing the blood of service members, a blue star for active duty, and a gold star representing those who have died in service.

Sanders urged the city council to adopt both the Honor and Remember flag and the Honor and Sacrifice flag, which honors first responders who have died in the line of duty. He expressed that this gesture would demonstrate the city’s commitment to remembering its fallen heroes and supporting Gold Star families.

Earl, another community member, echoed Sanders' sentiments, calling for greater civic engagement in honoring veterans. He criticized the lack of formal celebrations on significant dates like Independence Day and suggested that citizens should dedicate more time and resources to recognize the sacrifices made by service members throughout history.

Nicholas Gers, commander of American Legion Post 434, announced that the post would donate the first Honor and Remember flag, should the city decide to procure it.

The meeting also included a first reading of Council Bill 2024-21, which proposes a $100,000 amendment to the city’s annual budget to fund the removal of trees affected by the emerald ash borer, with a portion of the funding coming from a $50,000 grant. The discussions highlighted the community's commitment to honoring its heroes while addressing local environmental concerns.