Gettysburg Foundation opens national tribute during America's 250th anniversary; visitors welcome through November 23

GETTYSBURG, Pa., Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ten thousand American flags now stand near the Eternal Light Peace Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park. The Gettysburg Foundation opened A Field of Remembrance on Thursday, inviting visitors to reflect on the human cost of the Battle of Gettysburg, where more than 51,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, captured or reported missing.

On display through November 23, the installation brings together flags sponsored by individuals, families, businesses and organizations nationwide. Some honor specific people, while others reflect a broader commitment to remembrance. Together, they connect personal acts of remembrance with Gettysburg's enduring national significance.

"Each flag represents a choice to remember," said Barbara Sardella, interim President and CEO of Gettysburg Foundation. "Together, they have created something extraordinary here at Gettysburg. We hope visitors will reflect on the lives affected by this battle, those who have served our nation and what their sacrifice continues to mean."

Thursday's opening ceremony featured remarks from U.S. Senator Dave McCormick, Gettysburg National Military Park Superintendent Stephanie Stephens, Gettysburg Foundation Board Vice Chair Gene Barr and Sardella.

"The Battle of Gettysburg stands as a defining moment in our nation's history and a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice and commitment to duty required to defend our freedom," said U.S. Senator McCormick. "Having served in the Army, I have a deep appreciation for the men and women who have answered our nation's call. As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, we must honor the heroes who fought for our country and recognize the Pennsylvania veterans who continue to carry forward that legacy of service."

Launched on Flag Day, June 14, A Field of Remembrance invited Americans to sponsor flags honoring those who served, with proceeds supporting the Gettysburg Foundation's preservation and education work in partnership with the National Park Service. The campaign surpassed its original goal of 7,000 flags, culminating in an installation of 10,000 American flags.

Dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the battle's 75th anniversary in 1938, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial symbolizes national unity and reconciliation. A Field of Remembrance offers a contemporary expression of that commitment.

A Field of Remembrance is free and open to the public through November 23. For more information, visit GettysburgFoundation.org/A-Field-of-Remembrance.

GETTYSBURG FOUNDATION is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit philanthropic, educational organization operating in partnership with the National Park Service to preserve Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site and educate the public about their significance. The Foundation operates the Museum & Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park, as well as the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital, Children of Gettysburg 1863® and the Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station^™. The Foundation offers customized professional leadership development on the Gettysburg battlefield through its Higher Ground Leadership at Gettysburg programming. For information about visiting Gettysburg or how you can become a Friends of Gettysburg member in support of the Gettysburg Foundation's preservation and education mission in partnership with the National Park Service at Gettysburg, visit GettysburgFoundation.org or call 877-874-2478. Proceeds from tickets and other purchases in the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center and donations to Gettysburg Foundation benefit Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Bruce McConnel, Vice President of Marketing Communications
Gettysburg Foundation
bmcconnel@gettysburgfoundation.org

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SOURCE The Gettysburg Foundation