From West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club
A field of flags. A walk with purpose. A moment to honor the heroes in our lives.
A spectacular 2026 Berks County Field of Heroes display from June 29 through July 6, presented by the West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club, welcomed everyone who visited the Wyomissing Stone House Pond and walked the trails for an opportunity to reflect on the dedicated U.S. flags. A celebration ceremony held on July 2 featured inspiring speeches from local officials and community leaders. The West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club is grateful for the incredible collaboration in making the 2026 Berks County Field of Heroes experience a success for the local community. Together, the community has created a powerful tribute that inspires all by honoring our heroes.
The July 2 Celebration of Heroes Ceremony brought the community together for a moving program featuring the Presentation of Colors by the Berks County Sheriff’s Honor Guard, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Berks County Veterans Affairs Will Tobin, along with representatives in dress uniform posting all six of the Military Service Flags. Musical tributes included the National Anthem and Taps performed by the Hero Brass Ensemble and the Brandywine Colonials Fife & Drum Corps, and musket salutes by the 1st Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line.
Local and state leaders, including Pennsylvania Senator Judy Schwank, Pennsylvania Representative Johanny Cepeda‑Freytiz, Berks County Commissioners Christian Leinbach, Michael Rivera, and Dante Santoni, Borough of Wyomissing Mayor Fred Levering, and Borough of West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag, offered reflections on service, sacrifice, and community. Rotary District 7430 Jeremiah Sensenig, District Governor, shared the vision of Rotary to unite people and take action to create lasting change.
Dr. Charles F. Barbera, Reading Hospital president and CEO (Old Glory Sponsor), said, “Reading Hospital is proud to sponsor the Berks County Field of Heroes and honor the military heroes, healthcare providers, emergency responders, and other community members who have had an impact on our lives. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation, we reflect on the significance of this powerful display and the Independence Day holiday, which remind us of the bravery and courage of those who serve to protect our freedoms.”
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, a special 1776 Steps Mental Health & Wellness Walk, along with resource information tables, was part of this year’s event. A Flag Disposal Box was available for proper flag retirement.
A hero is someone admired for courage, achievement, or noble character. From June 29 to July 6, visitors walked among the more than 250 dedicated U.S. flags at Wyomissing Stone House Pond, each medallion honoring a unique story of service, from military members and first responders to educators, healthcare providers, community leaders, and hometown heroes.
James Milham, President of the West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club and Chair of the 2026 Berks County Field of Heroes, said, “The primary purpose of the Field of Heroes is to bring our community together to honor the heroes in our lives, share what Rotary does, and raise funds that the West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club uses to make a positive impact on various community service projects and initiatives.”
The Club partners with the Borough of Wyomissing Parks & Recreation Department to enhance the community’s July 4 Celebration and has a central location in Berks County.
A complete listing of sponsors and supporters, along with a list of who the U.S. flags were dedicated in honor of or in memory of, can be found at the West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club website at Home Page | Rotary Club of West Reading-Wyomissing (clubrunner.ca) under the 2026 Field of Heroes tab on the home page. Plans are already underway for another heartfelt tribute during the week of July 4, 2027, ensuring that the courage, hope, and enduring strength symbolized by the U.S. flag remain alive in our community.
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