Rapid City, South Dakota – Thousands flocked to Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Saturday night to place numerous American flags across Freedom Field.
“Growing up in Sturgis… this place is special to me,” said South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley. “This rally is special. As I look off in this field, which I used to drive by on my way to my farm as a child, and see the largest field of flags in the country, I am proud to be from Sturgis, South Dakota, and an American.”
Jackley and retired Brigadier General Patrick Michaelis served as the ceremony’s keynote speakers. Michaelis emphasized the significance of the flags at Freedom Field, which commemorate the sacrifice of military members killed in action.
“This country is worth it, every one of you are worth it, your loved ones are worth it,” Michaelis told the crowd. “This idea called freedom is worth it.”
Every year, similar ceremonies take place on Freedom Field. On Memorial Day, Mai Richards ran from Spearfish to Freedom Field to honor fallen soldiers. Richards announced a much larger endeavor for 2026 on Saturday night, stating that she will begin the run in Sioux Falls.
