#United States #Phoenix #Community Service #University of Phoenix #Memorial Day

University of Phoenix Hosts 17th Annual Memorial Day Flag-Planting Event

On May 19, 2026, the University of Phoenix celebrated its 17th annual Memorial Day event with a poignant flag-planting ceremony on its Phoenix campus, Arizona. This yearly tradition serves as a heartfelt tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the Armed Forces. Each year, volunteers from the university, alongside community members, join forces to plant an impressive total of over 10,000 flags, forming a powerful message: "Never Forgotten, Always Remembered."

The event underscores a commitment to remembrance and community spirit. Each flag planted symbolizes not just a fallen hero, but also the families and legacies intertwined with their stories. John Ramirez, a retired U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. and the dean of operations for the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies, articulated the significance of the event, stating, "Each flag represents a life, a family, and a legacy of service that shaped our nation in lasting ways. Remembering is not merely an act of honoring past sacrifices but also of embracing the responsibility to live with purpose and gratitude for those who gave everything."

Following the flag-planting, a solemn ceremony ensued, led by Sandra Perez, the Vice President and Lead of the Office of Military Veterans Affairs. The ceremony included solemn performances of the national anthem and a rendition of "Taps," creating an atmosphere of respect and unity. Guest speaker Ryan Burt, a United States Air Force veteran and Enrollment Manager at the university, shared reflections on the importance of community support and remembrance. "This gathering reflects the strength of a community that shows up to remember, together," he said, emphasizing the collective effort to honor those who served and sacrificed.

As part of the event, the flags planted will be collected by Arizona Heroes to Hometowns, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans. On May 22, the flags will be distributed to local military cemeteries ahead of Memorial Day, ensuring the memory of these heroes continues to be honored and recognized in tangible ways.

The University of Phoenix, celebrating over 50 years of innovation for real-life education, remains committed to enriching the lives of working adults through flexible online learning opportunities. Active students and alumni have access to invaluable career support services, enabling them to navigate their professional paths effectively.

As the university continues to cultivate a sense of community and collective responsibility, events like the Memorial Day flag-planting serve as vital reminders of the sacrifices made by others and the importance of honoring their legacy. University of Phoenix stands as a beacon of support, not just for its students, but for the broader community, particularly those who have served in the armed forces.