Thirty American flags fly throughout the year on Chattanooga's Veterans Bridge. Since January 2003, the money to purchase each of those flags has been provided by an anonymous donor. At a rate of approximately 70 flags per year (they must be replaced periodically due to wear and tear caused by environmental conditions), over the course of the ten years, this person donated 700 flags.

In early 2014, the City was told that this citizen would no longer able to continue providing the funds for the flags. We are very grateful for his/her incredibly thoughtful and generous donation over these past 10 years.

Recently a Chattanooga businessman, Scott McKenzie, contacted Transportation to ask if he could donate a flag in honor of his father, a retired Coast Guard Captain. He explained that 10 years ago, on the occasion of his father's 90th birthday, he had donated the money to pay for one in his father's honor, and then he created a certificate, with his father's name, that proclaimed a flag on the Veterans Bridge flew in his honor. Mr. McKenzie says that of all of his father's numerous certificates and awards which cover the walls in his house, he is the most proud of that certificate for the flag on the bridge.

To mark Cpt R.T.Allen McKenzie's 100th birthday, his son Scott once again requested that he be able to provide another flag and certificate for him. Out of this gesture a new program immerged: The Veterans Bridge Flag Initiative.

Any individual who wishes to honor a loved one who has served by donating the cost of a flag on the bridge may now do so. Each flag is $75 and will fly for about six months or until it requires replacement. Each honoree will be given a personalized proclamation signed by Mayor Tim Kelly, recognizing their service. The ceremonies for recognition will be held in conjunction with the Chattanooga Area Veterans Council on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, as part of the wider community commemoration of those who have served.

The five poles in the center of the west side of the bridge will fly flags permanently in memory of the five servicemen who perished in the July 2015 tragedy.

Apply Below