Volunteers place flags at Oak Hill Cemetery to honor fallen heroes

In the days leading up to Memorial Day, rows of American flags wave gently over the hills of Oak Hill Cemetery in Youngstown — each one placed to honor a life of service.

On Saturday morning, volunteers from across the Mahoning Valley came together for a flag placement event coordinated by the Broadhead-Wydell Memorial Team. Daniele Phillips, who leads the effort, says it’s a small but powerful way to show respect.

“It’s a beautiful place to reflect, but to reflect on the service that they’ve done,” she said. “Having these flags out here really makes it super memorable.”

Phillips has overseen the event for the past four years and says the team continues to work to identify all the veterans buried at Oak Hill — including those from the Civil War. Many of the older graves have faded over time, which is why she says the work is so important.

“It’s really special to see young kids out here learning about this,” she said. “These are real people who fought real wars. This tradition helps make that history come alive.”

Students from the Northeast Ohio IMPACT Academy were among the group of volunteers this year. For many of them, it was their first time participating.

“I feel honored to help those who fought for us feel recognized,” said sophomore Jodairys Vasquez. “Because of them, we are where we are today.”

Phillips says the effort is also deeply personal. Her grandmother’s husband was killed in World War II, and placing flags each year is her way of remembering him — and all those who served.

“This is my chance to stop, think, and show my own appreciation,” she said. “When you see the flags dotting the cemetery, you realize just how many lives were impacted.”

For the volunteers, it’s not just about continuing a tradition — it’s about keeping memories alive. With every flag placed, a story is remembered, and a sacrifice is honored.