VAU Fallen Heroes Memorial visiting MacDill in March

A 28-foot wide American flag made from the dog tags of fallen service members is scheduled to visit MacDill AFB next month.

The Global War on Terror Memorial Flag memorial will be located in the MacDill AFB Community Park, next to the Bayshore Blvd. Gate starting March 2.

The memorial is a 28-foot wide by six-foot tall American flag that resembles the flag draped over a fallen service member's casket. It is made from more than 7,000 dog tags of service men and women who have died since 2001.

The 50 stars honor the Gold Star families nationwide. Displayed in front of the flag is a battle field cross sculpted from mahogany wood.

It will be open to base personnel each day, through March 5. Parking at the Community Park and admission to visit the Veterans and Athletes United Fallen Heroes Memorial are free.

The flag has traveled throughout the eastern United States including Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia. The memorial will be on display at MacDill AFB for the U.S. Special Operations Command Warrior Games selection camp.

The memorial was built by veterans, active duty military and caring professionals from military families. Similar to the Vietnam Moving Wall, this memorial travels to special locations where it is open to the public, allowing communities to reflect on the service and sacrifice of our armed forces.

For more information on the VAU Fallen Heroes Memorial please visit www.vetsau.com/memorial. You can also find them on Facebook at facebook.com/vetsau/ or on Instagram @Vetsau