Ringgold honors veterans with Festival of Flags

RINGGOLD, Ga. (WDEF) – The City of Ringgold is honoring deceased veterans with its Festival of Flags. 

“It started in early ’70s to honor some of the veterans that served in the county in World War I and II. There was not many at that time. We just continued that on down through the years and we just feel like we owe it to the veterans. To the men and women then were willing to serve our county,” said Pete Pedigo, Catoosa County Veterans Memorial Flag Crew. 

Each flag is anchored with a white cross, the name of the veteran and branch of service. 

Pedigo considers it a privilege to memorialize local veterans. 

Festival of Flags in the City of Ringgold, Georgia.

“It is just a good feeling and the people that was willing to serve. Again, it just gives you a good feeling. It just makes you feel good about yourself, for our country,” Pedigo said. “So many countries that don’t have the freedom we have to protect it.” 

According to the Catoosa County Veterans Memorial Flag Crew, more than 2,000 flags are displayed in Ringgold each year. 

For years to come, Retired Marine Sgt. Michael Schlote says it is important that folks remember the sacrifice from local veterans. 

“Some of them gave their all, while they were in the service. Some of them passed on later in life. But regardless, they gave it all to this country to help keep this country free, and we need to not forget them,” said Schlote.