Remembering Patriot Day tomorrow

EPHRATA — On Dec. 18, 2001, Congress passed Public Law No. 107-89 designating Sept. 11 as “Patriot Day.” It’s a shame a law had to be passed to ensure patriotism is kept alive.  We should always remember that sacrifices have been made by many for our freedoms – Military, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, and Para-medics – some have given the ultimate sacrifice.

We owe these heroes, not just those who gave of themselves on 9-11-01 but those who have given throughout our history and those who are still giving today, a vow to never forget their sacrifices.  And we owe them a promise to tell future generations of the price paid for their freedoms.  Taking those freedoms for granted is a sure way to lose them.  There is a saying “Freedom shall endure”; well, it won’t if we neglect our responsibilities in preserving it. 

Due to a shortage of volunteers, the American Legion Family of Art Semro Post and Unit 28 is unable to put on our annual Patriot Day Ceremony this year but wishes to remind everyone that as we go about our lives – young members of our armed forces are fighting the war on terrorism in countless ways.  Just as veterans of earlier generations, today’s men and women in uniform understand that our precious freedoms come at a very high price.  We also have men and women of our Ambulance, Fire, Police, and Sheriff’s Departments who give of themselves everyday to help protect us and our freedoms.

The Governor has directed all Washington State Agency Facilities lower their flags to half-staff on Friday, Sept 11th and remain so until close of business that day.  Our American Legion Family hopes you will help make this day come alive in honoring the USA and those that make this nation great - join in this recognition by flying your flag at half-staff on Sept 11th until dusk; and, please take a moment or two to remember our freedoms and the responsibilities that we must live up to in order to preserve them.