Long May It Wave

To the Editor:

I think we are all in agreement that the terroristic tragedies of last week have been devastating to the nation. We have all gone through shock and fear and even been angered by the attacks on the US. We have also realized that uniting together as we once did so long ago to defend our country, is a powerful way to fight back against terrorism.

The founders of this country and defenders of our liberty rallied around the hopes and dreams represented by colored shreds of cloth sewn by Betsy Ross. Now, in continued defense of our home, we have taken up their cause. In the past few days I have seen flags popping up here and there all over town.

In my liberal mind I once thought it was a person’s free right to burn the flag in protest. Now I’m not debating this controversial issue. The last thing we need is more fighting, but I will say that the many acts of patriotism I have witnessed lately have given me a new respect for the Stars and Stripes.

The night of the attacks I drove down Main Street and saw our beloved flag flying at half mast. I have seen this symbol of mourning many times before, but this night it compelled me to tears.

Now I have a flag in my window to help in the battle. Imagine what a message it would send if every American put out just one flag, not in anger, but in support of our country. Certainly that would stand to strengthen all of our hearts and in doing so might weaken the hold of terrorism. So let “that Star Spangled Banner wave.”

Nicole C. LaRoche

18 years old

25 Sugarloaf Road, Sandy Hook                                   September 19, 2001