The American flag is a powerful symbol of unity, sacrifice, and pride. But how often do we stop to think about the hands that craft it? At Veterans Flag Depot, creating high-quality, American-made flags is not just a job—it’s a mission rooted in patriotism and tradition. We sat down with one of our lead flag makers, Mark Davis, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime craftsman, to get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into making each flag.
Q: Mark, what inspired you to become a flag maker?
Mark:
After leaving the Army, I wanted to continue serving meaningfully. Making flags seemed like the perfect fit—it’s a way to honor my fellow veterans and the country I swore to protect. Every time I work on a flag, I feel connected to something bigger than myself. It’s not just a product—it’s a symbol that carries weight.
Q: What does a typical day look like in your workshop?
Mark:
It starts early—we begin by prepping the materials: high-quality nylon or polyester, UV-resistant threads, and reinforced grommets. Each flag is hand-inspected for defects before we begin the sewing and assembly process. Attention to detail is everything. A small mistake can take away from the flag’s integrity and symbolism, so we take great pride in getting it right.
Q: How long does it take to make one American flag?
Mark:
It depends on the size and style. A standard 3×5′ outdoor flag takes a few hours from start to finish. If we’re doing a fully embroidered star field and reinforced stitching for high-wind use, it can take even longer. We don’t cut corners—we build our flags to last.
Q: What makes a flag from Veterans Flag Depot different?
Mark:
First and foremost, all our flags are 100% made in the USA. We use premium materials and follow strict quality standards. But it’s also the heart behind the work. Most of us are veterans. We know what that flag means when it’s folded at a funeral, flying on a soldier’s homecoming day, or standing tall at a school ceremony. That meaning is stitched into every flag we make.
Q: Do customers ever share how your flags have impacted them?
Mark:
All the time—and those stories keep us going. One customer wrote to tell us how they displayed one of our flags at their grandfather’s memorial service, and how it brought the entire family to tears. Others fly them outside their homes year-round. Knowing that our flags play a part in those moments of remembrance, pride, and unity, there’s no better reward.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the job?
Mark:
Seeing the finished product and knowing where it’s going. Whether it’s headed to a family of a fallen hero, a military base, or a local business, each flag has a story, and we get to be part of that story. There’s a quiet kind of honor in that.
Q: What’s your hope for the future of American flag manufacturing?
Mark:
I hope more people understand the value of buying American-made, not just for the quality, but for what it represents. Every flag we make supports jobs here at home and helps preserve a tradition that’s deeply American. I’d love to see more veterans entering the trade and keeping that legacy alive.
Final Thoughts
At Veterans Flag Depot, every flag tells a story—and behind each one is a craftsman like Mark, committed to precision, patriotism, and purpose. From sourcing materials to stitching the final seam, these artisans ensure that every American flag is worthy of the symbol it represents.
Whether you’re honoring a loved one, preparing for a ceremony, or flying the stars and stripes proudly outside your home, know that your flag was made with respect and pride by someone who truly understands its meaning.
