Sangamon County Hosts Flag Sojourn 250 Ceremony

Sheriff Paula Crouch and the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office hosted a ceremony welcoming the Flag Sojourn 250 as it continues its journey across the country in advance of America's 250th birthday.

The Flag Sojourn 250, organized by the National Flag Foundation, is carrying a single American flag to every U.S. cemetery overseas, each U.S. territory and all 50 states ahead of July 4, 2026. The flag has already traveled to all 26 overseas U.S. cemeteries and more than 20 states as part of the nationwide effort.

Sheriff Paula Crouch served as the presiding officer for the ceremony. A Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office honor guard entered the atrium with the folded flag and presented it to Sheriff Crouch.

In her remarks, Sheriff Crouch said the flag’s journey is intended to bring Americans together and recognize the nation’s history, its heroes and its future. She described the American flag as a symbol of freedom that represents the sacrifices and ideals that unite the country. She also thanked those who serve in uniform, in their communities and in support of their families.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Sheriff Crouch presented the flag to Jim Kaitschuk, executive director of the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association. The flag arrived in Illinois from Michigan and will travel next to Wisconsin as it continues across the United States.

Sangamon County is proud to serve as one of the stops on the Flag Sojourn 250 and to take part in recognizing the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.