Dunlap RAGBRAI, 2026
New flagpole installed in Dunlap during RAGBRAI honoring local veterans
Jill Schaben, DCDC
For the Harrison County Times-Reporter
Visitors and residents alike may have noticed a meaningful new addition to People’s Park during RAGBRAI this summer—a 25-foot lighted flagpole dedicated to the Veterans of Dunlap.
The installation was part of ‘FLAG’BRAI, a special initiative organized by the Veteran Flagpole Initiative (VFI), an Iowa-based nonprofit dedicated to honoring Veterans through the installation of permanent residential and community flagpoles.
During this year’s RAGBRAI route, VFI completed 14 flagpole installations bringing its mission of gratitude and patriotism to towns across Iowa. Founded in 2021, the Veteran Flagpole Initiative is a 100% volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) organization with a mission of providing Veterans with a lasting visual reminder of their service and sacrifice. What began as a small group of friends installing 17 flagpoles in its first year has grown into an organization that has now installed more than 250 flagpoles in five states, with the majority located throughout Iowa.
The Dunlap installation was dedicated to the Veterans of our community and now stands proudly in People’s Park, where it will serve as a lasting tribute to those who have worn our nation's uniform. The telescoping flagpole features both the American flag and the Iowa flag and is topped with a solar-powered light, ensuring the flags remain illuminated each evening.
Representatives from the Veteran Flagpole Initiative were joined by members of the Dunlap American Legion and local Veterans during the installation ceremony held as thousands of RAGBRAI riders traveled through town. The event offered an opportunity to pause amid the excitement of the day to recognize the service, sacrifice, and commitment of the men and women who have defended our country.
The Veteran Flagpole Initiative hopes to install flagpoles honoring Veterans in all 99 Iowa counties by 2028 and continues to welcome volunteers and donations to support its mission.
The Dunlap American Legion expressed its appreciation following the installation, thanking the Veteran Flagpole Initiative for its generosity and service. The new flagpole now stands as a visible reminder of the gratitude our community holds for its Veterans—not just during special events, but every day of the year.
Whether passing through People’s Park or attending a community gathering, residents are encouraged to take a moment to admire the new flagpole and reflect on the sacrifices it represents. It is a fitting and lasting addition to Dunlap, ensuring that the service of our local Veterans is honored for generations to come.
