This blog was written by John Lewis.
While working in my front yard the other day I took a look at my house and saw it was time for a new American flag. Then I thought, wow that flag has been there for such a long time and stands for so much to me on a personal level that I have never even thought about replacing it.
Believe it or not, I hung the flag in question on the morning of Sept. 12, 2001 after returning from the World Trade Center. It was a sign to show American resilience and strength and that we as a country would overcome the horrific events of the prior day.
I think back to my first evening at Ground Zero often and believe it was an honor and privilege that our chief of department sent 12 members to assist with the rescue and recovery efforts. Upon our arrival the scene was quiet, yet so active. Apparatus and firefighters spread over the area working relentlessly to rescue their comrades and civilian victims. As we worked side by side with brother firefighters from all over the New York City metro area nothing was said, no usual firehouse banter, no comments, nobody was looking for a break or relief from their posts, every person on that scene was focused on the same thing.
It was late in the night when we were thanked and told to go back to New Jersey. Slowly we walked away from the scene constantly looking over our shoulders in silence and sadness. When we returned to our vehicles we saw the time and realized we had been there for most of the night. It was dark in lower Manhattan, dust was everywhere. We slowly drove out of a dark, depressed city but were inspired as we came back through the tunnel into New Jersey. We started seeing flags flying along the highway and on overpasses showing the true pride and resilience of our nation.
It was just before sunrise we got back to our firehouse. Members were watching the news and a fresh crew was mustering to go back into the city to offer assistance. Our group was exhausted and off to our homes we all went for a much needed break. I can clearly remember the first thing I did when I arrived at my house. I went inside, searched the house for my new American flag and proudly hung our nation’s symbol of freedom on my home.
In a small way it was a memorial to those I thought might not return, never thinking it would remain as a tribute for those who did not.
As the 13th anniversary approaches I see a new flag waving high and wide in front of my house. It stands today in memory of the thousands murdered on Sept. 11 and to those that have passed on due to illnesses directly related to rescue operations on that tragic day and several ensuing months.
The “Jersey Guys” spent a number of weeks in New York City after the tragic terrorist attacks on our country. We, like others, lost some friends and acquaintances during the attacks. We know that every firefighter, regardless of how involved they were during that day, shares in the loss of our brave brothers murdered on Sept. 11 and the enduring pain inflicted on the friends and families they left behind.
Never forget means never forget. Let's make sure we stand true to our word.
