Hi, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism and today I’m out in Iota, Louisiana, under the oaks at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church cemetery and this cemetery has a patriotic display you’ve got to see to believe. 

These flags do more than mark graves — they tell stories of service and sacrifice. 

Nearly 240 American veterans are laid to rest here. The mission is simple: every one of them deserves a flag. 

For the past three to four years, this project has grown steadily and is now about 95% complete. It’s led and maintained by Mr. Joel Cart, an Air Force veteran who works here at the church. He makes sure each veteran’s gave is marked by a 3-by-5 American flag.  

But wind and weather take their toll, and the flags must be replaced every four to six months. They’re funded entirely through donations made at the church and through a community Bingo fundraiser. 

If you’d like to help honor these veterans, you can visit the church office to make a donation — and be part of ensuring their service is never forgotten.