A little more than a week from now we will commemorate the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Next Friday, an American flag should be displayed outside every home, apartment, office, and store in the United States.
Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this eighth anniversary of one of our country's worst tragedies. We do this to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms.
In the days, weeks and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared.
Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times, and it shouldn't take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the fabric of our country, and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.
Fly an American flag of any size on 9/11. Honestly, Americans should fly the flag year-round, but if you don't, then at least make it a priority on this day.
The flag should be displayed at half-staff from sunrise to sunset that day. Americans are also asked to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. (EST), the time of the first plane crash on Sept. 11, 2001.
Thank you for your participation. God bless you and God bless America!
Bill Dippery is the Mifflin County Director of Veterans Affairs. His office is located in the Mifflin County Courthouse at 20 N. Wayne St. in Lewistown. He can be contacted by phone at 248-6421 or by fax at 248-2527.
