Arts and Sciences | Community | News01/01/2021

Wing Brings Fort Smith History to Flag Sojourn 250 Event

Written By: Tina Alvey Dale

A University of Arkansas – Fort Smith professor will help the River Valley commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American flag during the Stars and Stripes Sojourn 250 campaign on Thursday, Dec. 4, at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith. 

Tom Wing, assistant professor of history, will speak during the opening remarks of the America 250 event, scheduled for 8–8:45 a.m. Wing’s comments will highlight the history of Fort Smith and Arkansas, with a focus on their long-standing ties to military service. 

“Fort Smith exists today because of a military mission. Fort Chaffee was created and continues to serve today,” he said. “And the Air National Guard, which is today Ebbing Air Force Base, has been in Fort Smith since 1953.” Wing noted that he will discuss the many roles that this region has played in our nation’s past. 

Flag Sojourn 250 is the journey of one American flag to every U.S. state, every U.S. territory, and every U.S. military cemetery overseas. “This special global odyssey wraps up as the flag touches the states of the 13 original colonies — and concludes in Washington, D.C.,” states the National Flag Foundation’s website. 

 The project is part of the National Flag Foundation and America250’s America Waves program.  

Thursday’s event in Fort Smith is the only event in Arkansas, Wing said.   

Representatives from Fort Smith, Sebastian County, and the Arkansas Governor's Office will speak during the event.  

“It’s our state’s only chance to raise the flag that will be the focus of this celebration. It's a great honor for the city, and I believe a great opportunity for us to showcase Fort Smith’s military history in the oldest national cemetery in Arkansas,” Wing said.