SHELTON — The Derby-Shelton Rotary Club held its 5th Annual Flags for Heroes Ceremony on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Shelton Veterans Memorial Park.

This patriotic community tribute honored heroes who have made a meaningful impact in our lives — including veterans, active military, first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, coaches, community leaders, neighbors, and loved ones.

In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, hundreds of American flags were displayed on the Derby Green and the Shelton Veterans Memorial Park in a powerful visual tribute to service, sacrifice, and community pride. They will continue on display until June 18.

Community members, families, and businesses sponsored over 300 flags in honor of their heroes. Each sponsored flag includes a commemorative tag bearing the hero’s name and recognition.

New This Year

Sponsors also had the opportunity to upload a photo of their hero, which were featured on a slideshow throughout the morning and during the ceremony as part of the event’s commemorative display—bringing each tribute even more to life. Many did send in photos and we look forward to even more next year.

Proceeds from the Flags for Heroes program support local charitable initiatives and community service projects led by the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club.

The ceremony will feature patriotic reflections, community recognition, and a moment of gratitude honoring those who serve and inspire. Something new this year is that we will be displaying a slideshow of our heroes with the photos being provided.

This year’s event is especially meaningful as it coincides with the United States 250th Anniversary, making it a powerful moment to celebrate patriotism, unity, and service.

Click on following links to see all the heroes honored with flags from:

Derby         Shelton

The 1916 Derby-Shelton Bridge which received a complete makeover ending in 2024 has been enhanced once again in time for Memorial Day thanks to the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club and the Derby and Shelton Public Works Departments. Brand new American flags have been installed just in time for the annual Memorial Day parade which takes place on Monday, May 26 and the Rotary Club’s Flags for Heroes program. Work crews deployed the flags from the light posts along the bridge on a windy day that showed the beauty of the display. The middle of the bridge is the site of a special wreath ceremony during the parade each year honoring those who died in the service of their country. Learn more about the Flags for Heroes program here.