Remember

Since September 11, 2001, my father has taken to flying flags in his front yard. Sometimes it is an American Flag, some make political statements, but mostly the flags honor Veterans and those that died on 9/11. Two years ago, during the 5th anniversary, I would kid him that if a reporter ever came by inquiring about the story behind the flags, he had better come up with something good or he would just be known as "the crazy flag man." My parents were born and raised in the NJ/NY Metropolitan area, and most of our family still lives there. We were fortunate that we didn't lose anyone that day, however, I think most people driving by and seeing the flags would assume differently. Lately I have come to realize that his story is simply that he remembers, and the flags are a reminder that we should also. I had to explain to my boys why Grandpa flies those flags and the meaning behind them, and they fully understand and know the importance of this day. The people that have stopped by and shared their stories, left flowers and mementos at the base of the flag, or just honked and waved as they passed by, let us know that they remember. Everyone that died that day in those Towers in New York, at the Pentagon in Washington, and that field in Pennsylvania was a spouse, child, parent, sibling or friend. Those they left behind can only remember. So if that reporter ever comes by they can quote me as saying "I'm proud that the crazy flag man is my Dad!" Please take some time today to REMEMBER.