One Life – One Flag Installation at Buffalo Naval Park

Buffalo’s waterfront turns into a quiet site of remembrance during the One Life – One Flag installation at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park. Set along the Lake Erie harbor, 7,300 American flags cover the grounds, each representing a veteran lost to the invisible wounds of war. You can walk the field at your own pace, with sightlines that often include the park’s permanent memorials, including the Vietnam Memorial and the Iraq-Afghanistan Monument.

The installation is presented by the Naval Park in partnership with the Battle Within Foundation. Viewing the flag field is free and open for public walk-throughs, and you can elevate your visit by adding a self-guided tour of the museum’s vessels. Tickets are only required for ship and museum access, where you can explore the USS Little Rock, the USS The Sullivans, and the submarine USS Croaker.

Plan to arrive early for the most reflective atmosphere, before the afternoon waterfront crowds. You can park in the paid lots around Canalside or take the NFTA Metro Rail and walk to the entrance. Wear comfortable shoes for grass and gravel, and if you tour the ships, be ready for steel decks and ladders. Bring a jacket since Lake Erie wind can feel noticeably cooler than downtown, and expect rain or shine conditions. Dogs are welcome on the park grounds and at the monuments on a leash, but they are not permitted on the ships.

Give yourself about one hour for the flag installation, plus two hours if you plan to tour the vessels. For convenient access, book a hotel in Buffalo Canalside or downtown so you can move easily between the Naval Park and the waterfront trails. You can also browse regional options through Lake.com for stays with simple transit to the Lake Erie shoreline. If you want to support the mission, donations are accepted, and you may receive a flag and certificate after the weekend.