Today I was driving along Main Street when I passed the Veterans Memorial. I had to stop. I knew that yesterday volunteers–citizens (young and old), local business owners, a Boy Scout troop, Young Marines, and several other children had gone out there to place flags in honor of our veterans (I was out of town for work, so I missed participating).
But to hear about it and to see it are two entirely different things. A field full of American flags:
The flag, of course, is an enduring symbol of national unity and pride. As I walked amongst those flags, contemplating the sacrifices of the men and women to whom they pay tribute, I felt admiration, appreciation, and deep respect.
And what a fitting tribute this is. For most veterans, the flag represents why they served: it represents the American freedoms on which this country was built and on which it prides itself. It represents valor, bravery, vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
As Elmer Davis said, “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” How fortunate we are to have so many men and women who offer themselves up in service to this great country to protect our freedoms.
How fortunate, too, are we to have people, especially children, willing to give up their Saturday to create such a fitting tribute on behalf of our city–to show our respect, our gratitude, and our admiration for those veterans. To remind us during the course of the busy days of our busy lives to take time out and remember the importance of their service.
Every time I pass that beautiful flag field this week, I know I will be filled with the same awe I was today. And all I will be able to think about is how grateful I am to those who serve. How grateful I am to live in the land of the free because it is home to so many brave men and women willing to keep it that way.
If you don’t have time to visit during the week, you can see the flag field and join us in honoring our veterans at the ceremony at Veterans Corner at 2 PM, this Saturday, November 5th.
Jenn Hulehan, Simpsonville City Council 