By Staff
Our View
Five years ago, American's were left speechless as the media announced that a U.S. airliner crashed into one of the World Trade Center Towers in New York.
As millions tuned into the live news coverage, they witnessed yet another plane flying directly into the path of the second tower.
It was then that everyone realized we, as Americans, were no longer safe. As the towers crumbled and another hijacked plane hit the Pentagon and United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in a field, the reality of terrorism hit home.
As the harsh reality hit home, and while families searched for and grieved the loss of loved ones, American citizens from the north to the south and the east to the west stood up in support of their country and the many people who had lost their lives at the hands of such a horrific attack.
American flags appeared from out of nowhere. Businesses flew them proudly at their entrance; some even painted our symbol of freedom on storefronts. Vehicles of all kinds sported hand-painted flags on the windows and flags flying from the antennas, while bumper stickers could be spotted far and wide. Words such as '9/11, we will never forget' were seen on business marquees, vehicles and written in chain-linked fences with red Solo cups.
Just the sight of so many flags, brought about a great since of patriotism and unity among a country that was left in a state of shock from the terrorist attacks.
But where are those flags today, five years later? One must wonder, have we forgotten? As with most fads, like bell-bottom jeans, so to has the American flag once again lost it's place in our hectic, selfish society.
Rest assured that the thousands of mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, sons, daughters, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, who lost loved ones have not forgotten. Sept. 11 is just as vivid in their minds and hearts as it was the day it occurred.
And be certain that Sept. 11 is just as vivid in the minds of the remaining terrorist groups who still lurk in the shadows awaiting America's demise as well. They have not forgotten and will never stop plotting.
And don't forget the thousands of American men and women who continue to fight minute by minute for our safety and continued freedom. Do you suppose they have forgotten?
Not a chance. Their American flag still flies proudly and freely over the parched desert of Afghanistan and Iraq while our flags sit packed away in a box somewhere in the comfort of our homes.
Sept. 11. 9/11 or 911, no matter how you say it, that day should have changed the way we as American's live each day – not just for a moment.
Let your flag fly high.