Reflecting on 9/11 and the Legacy of the American Flag

Twenty-five years ago, on September 11, 2001, our nation faced a devastating attack. In the aftermath, the Star-Spangled Banner became a poignant symbol of our resilience. Flags were seen everywhere—on porches, in parks, attached to clothing—serving as reminders of unity and endurance. With its long history, the flag represents both individual loyalty and a collective spirit.

During my seven years in the U.S. Air Force, I felt this same sense of duty and camaraderie. Serving as a space operations officer and later as a history instructor, I came to understand that military service often means prioritizing a purpose greater than oneself. Through this experience, I witnessed the deep significance the Star-Spangled Banner holds for those dedicated to defending it.

Flags embody a larger sense of identity and responsibility, uniting us in a shared mission to protect freedoms. After 9/11, a wave of patriotism spread across the country. The flag became a prominent fixture in many communities, a tribute to those who had fallen and a show of support for our troops, reinforcing the idea that we, as Americans, remain strong together.

In honor of this collective memory, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum will launch a special program to mark its 25th anniversary with an installation titled “Our Flag Was Still There.” Set to open to the public on March 18, 2026, the exhibit will showcase flags that commemorate pivotal moments from the past quarter-century, including the flag raised after the Twin Towers and Pentagon attacks and the one displayed during Operation Neptune’s Spear, which resulted in Osama bin Laden’s death.

Throughout these significant events, the American flag has symbolized resilience and strength, side by side with our nation’s 250-year story.

This upcoming anniversary also arrives at a noteworthy demographic crossroads—one-third of today’s U.S. population was born after 9/11. This means that around 100 million people now view that tragic day as a historical account, rather than a personal experience. They didn’t witness the destruction firsthand, nor did they feel the profound silence of sorrow that enveloped the nation. They didn’t see how Americans came together with courage and determination or how the flag waved over Ground Zero, becoming a focal point for collective mourning and unity.

This underlines the importance of memory. The phrase “Never Forget” embodies not only a tribute to the victims but also a call to rekindle the shared solidarity experienced in the days after the attacks. We remember the brave firefighters who rushed toward peril, sacrificing their own safety. We recall the iconic moment of the Ground Zero flag being hoisted on that fateful day. And we honor the thousands who answered the nation’s call during its darkest hours.

Currently, over 27 million visitors have walked through the museum doors. Many people come curious to understand what transpired, as they were not part of it. They seek to learn about the outpouring of courage and compassion that helped unite a grieving nation. They also discover the ongoing impact of 9/11, which continues to affect lives as more individuals succumb to illnesses linked to toxic exposure from the attack’s aftermath.

This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary while reflecting on a day that forever changed us. It’s a fitting time to reconnect with the significance of the Star-Spangled Banner—an enduring symbol of our shared commitment to freedom, meant to inspire and ground us through adversities, fostering hope for future generations.