“We’re not just raising flags; we’re raising awareness,” Jones explained to a reporter from The Washington Post. “Every flag tells a story of service, just like every family who’s navigated hospital costs, recovery from medical malpractice, or fought for better health insurance plans knows their story matters too.”
Community Engagement and Celebrity Support. By noon, the event expanded into a community fair, featuring live music, food trucks, and booths where attendees could learn about veteran support programs, mental health resources, and information on navigating wellness challenges faced by military families. Jones worked the crowd, shaking hands and sharing laughs, his infectious energy drawing in passersby.
Local celebrities, including actor Chris Pratt and singer Carrie Underwood, joined unannounced, amplifying the event’s reach. Pratt, a known supporter of veterans, helped assemble care packages for deployed troops, while Underwood performed a stirring rendition of “God Bless the USA,” her voice echoing across the Mall.
The fair also included a “Flag Stories” tent, where attendees could record personal anecdotes about the flag’s meaning in their lives, much like families impacted by OB-GYN liability or those relying on prenatal care often share their own journeys.
Jones moderated a panel featuring first responders, including a paramedic who credited the flag with giving her strength during a mass casualty incident. “Joey’s passion reminded us why we do this,” she said, her voice breaking.
The recordings will be archived in a digital library, accessible online, ensuring the day’s impact—and its powerful reminder of unity, service, and access to essential healthcare—endures.
