In honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11, members of the National Honor Society at Affton High School are participating for the third year in their annual tradition: the Field of Flags initiative. 

Each of the NHS chapter’s roughly 30 members is expected to raise donations in honor of a veteran, which goes to Disabled American Veterans: a Kentucky-based organization that provides benefits assistance, transportation and more to disabled veterans across the nation.

“There’s a lot that’s done around Veterans Day, particularly at the lower grade levels,” said Brian Esselman, the NHS co-sponsor. “But it’s always been an interesting question as to how to get high school students to recognize the significance of the day, but also connect with the community. This is such a perfect activity for that.”

On Nov. 10, the grassy field by the marquee sign at Affton High School will flourish with 200-300 American flags, which the students set up themselves. On the marquee sign, passersby will see the scrolling names of veterans who were submitted to the NHS chapter. The display will be in place for Veterans Day, and Esselman estimates it will be taken down after school on Nov. 13.

“We think it’s pretty powerful, when it comes to the ultimate effect,” Esselman said. “We’re right there on McKenzie, and it’s a heavily trafficked road. Everyone sees the profile of the high school from the road, and here are all the flags right at the front with the marquee. It’s pretty inspiring stuff.” 

Esselman believes the initiative isn’t just for the benefit of the students, but for the benefit of the community. He says that he tries to encourage NHS members to form connections with the people they ask for donations and to learn more about the veterans they represent.

“It seems natural and good without being forced,” Esselman said. “I think that’s really great for high school students, because they crave authenticity, and they don’t get too much of it in the world. We feel like this really promotes that.”