The flagpole, which measures 170’, is situated in Central Park in the center of Uptown Station on Eglin Parkway. The Pole was erected in 2007 and dedicated to all members of the Military, Law Enforcement, Fire Departments, EMS and other First Responders by Uptown Station’s owner and developer Jay Odom. Odom decided on September 12, 2001 that he would erect a monument to all the Military and First responders.
The Fort Walton Beach Police and Fire Departments provide their Honor Guards for the Ceremony. The Honor Guards, in Full Dress uniform, perform a spectacular and moving ceremony during which they raise a giant 50’ x 80’ Stars and Stripes to the top of the 170’ pole.
The Honor Guards will arrive at 11:45 am for the Ceremony, which starts at 12 noon. The 50’ x 80’ Flag is walked in silence down the length of Central Park by the Honor Guard and is then hoisted. The Guard peels off and remains at the salute while the flag is first raised and then moved to half-staff.
See the section on the website covering The Uptown Station Flag for details and videos of previous Flag Raising Ceremonies.
#1 by tammie jonas - July 11th, 2009 at 06:36
It was such a beautiful event to start the 4th of July celebration off. First time seeing this Ceremony and it will not be my last. Thank You to everyone who participated.
#2 by uptown - July 11th, 2009 at 10:06
Thank you for the comments. The next Flag Raising will on September 11 to commemorate Patriot Day.