PERRYVILLE, Mo. – Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial (MNVM) is proud to announce the upcoming dedication of the Veterans Standing Together Across America (VSTAA) Flag, an extraordinary art piece and suicide prevention symbol, created by retired U.S. Navy Chief and nationally acclaimed artist Joe Pisano of Pisano Artistry.
The Missouri VSTAA Flag, crafted entirely from drywall screws and framed in white, is part of a growing national campaign to raise awareness around Veteran suicide and diversity. Originating with Pisano’s “Stand Together Flag,” this initiative now includes multiple flags signed by over 5,000 Veterans nationwide.
The Missouri Flag is a gift from the Resurrecting Lives Foundation (RLF) in appreciation for the state’s long-standing support of Veterans. RLF’s mission is to coordinate and advocate for the successful transition to a post-military career and life for veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
The VSTAA movement brings Veterans and civilians together for Patriotic flag signing ceremonies complete with the history, honor, and healing that occur with Veterans’ stories. In this way, our Veterans feel a sense of belonging, decreasing the isolation and depression that are prominent in Veterans suicides.
A ceremonial flag-line will form along Liberty Station’s hallways, culminating in a short presentation and the National Anthem. Attendees will receive handheld 4×6 American flags to wave in support of the flag’s “deployment” to Missouri.
Dedication Ceremony at MNVM
The Missouri VSTAA Flag will officially be welcomed during a Ceremony and Flag Signing on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 1172 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Perryville, MO 63775
The ceremony will feature remarks from Rae Lynn Munoz, Executive Director of MNVM and USMC veteran, along with appearances by Dr. Gordon, Chief Pisano, and regional Veterans.
The event will honor those who have served and those lost to suicide, while encouraging unity, dialogue, and continued outreach.
For more information, visit https://mnvmfund.org/ or follow us on https://www.facebook.com/americaswall/
Campaign Chief Pisano launched the VSTAA campaign with the support of Dr. Chrisanne Gordon, founder of the Resurrecting Lives Foundation. In collaboration with RLF, Pisano has created flags for Ohio, Hawaii, and Alaska; each mobilized as visual tools for healing, awareness, and public engagement.
The Missouri VSTAA Flag will serve as a monument for hope and conversation. RLF emphasizes that this gift to Missouri is a tribute to the support they’ve received from Missouri’s citizens, particularly Stan Crader, a longtime MNVM supporter, patriot, and original board member of RLF. Crader was instrumental in connecting MNVM with RLF and is anticipated to help present the Flag during the dedication ceremony.