The St. James Chamber of Commerce teamed up with the Veterans Assistance League to hold a fundraiser for the Missouri Veterans Home in St. James ahead of Veterans Day.

Under the fundraiser, community members could purchase a 12x18 American flag that featured the name of the veteran they’d like to honor. Then, the flags were displayed Nov. 2 along the St. James Tourist Information Center’s walking trail. The display will remain up until Nov. 15, after Veterans Day.

Rebecca West, director of the St. James Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Information Center, said that the fundraiser was a chance for residents to give something back to veterans in the community.

“Any time we honor our veterans, it’s a good thing. I think our whole community wants to support veterans and this is a fantastic way,” West said. “Whether it’s someone that’s in your family, a friend, or just someone you know, it’s a great way to honor them.”

West added that even those who didn’t purchase a flag can pay their respects to veterans at the Tourist Center’s walking trail, where the flags will be displayed.

“We invite everyone to come out and take a look. See the tourist center, walk and honor the veterans,” West said. “It’s all a very positive thing and we need that during this time.”

Donors could choose to have their flag feature the name of a loved one who served in the armed forces. Once the Warrior’s Walk display ends on Nov. 15, they’re welcome to find their flag and take it home with them, according to West.

Each $5 used to purchase a flag was donated by the Veterans Assistance League, with all proceeds going to benefit the St. James Veterans Home.