Remembering Those We Lost: A Sea of Flags in Round Rock
ROUND ROCK, Texas – This week, in a beautiful tribute to honor the lives lost on September 11 and those who made the ultimate sacrifice in combat since then, 4,000 American flags have been thoughtfully placed at Yonders Point in Old Settlers Park. The stunning display creates a peaceful yet powerful visual that captures the essence of sacrifice, bravery, and freedom.
The initiative was organized by volunteers, with a significant contribution from Angela Withrow, who helped set up this memorable memorial. As she looked over the vast sea of flags, she expressed, “It’s not just a flag. It’s not just, you know, a day. It’s remembering that there were people that wore those shoes, and they fought for our country, and they gave their life.” Her words resonate deeply, reminding everyone that behind each flag is a story of someone who dedicated their life to the nation’s safety and security.
A Lasting Tribute
The founder of the Texas Fallen Project Inc., Bobby Withrow, shared how this project began as a way to honor those who perished during the attacks on September 11, 2001. “We started out putting a flag for each of the fallen from 9/11; 2,978 people, and then there’s roughly about 800 Texans lost in combat,” said Bobby. “So, we came up with a rounded number of 4,000 flags.” Each flag contributes to a poignant reminder of the costs of freedom, and Bobby has remained dedicated to this cause over the years, ensuring that the memories of these heroes are not forgotten.
The sheer sight of these flags fluttering in the wind is a breathtaking experience. Each one stands tall, representing not only lives lost but also the resilience of those who continue to serve. With everything that has happened since that fateful day, it’s heartwarming and crucial to still have moments dedicated to remembering and honoring the sacrifice of these individuals.
A Family’s Reflection
Among the visitors at the memorial was Debbie Sullivan, who came with her husband and grandson. She reflected on the importance of the display, noting, “We have kids now that are born after this all happened and don’t even know what happened to our country. It was such a somber day, and to memorialize it like this is beautiful.” Her sentiment touches the heart of the matter: we must keep the memory and significance of September 11 alive, especially for the younger generations, so they can appreciate the weight of freedom and sacrifice.
A Call to Remember
In describing the motivation behind this solemn observance, Bobby asserted, “If we forget it, we’re doomed to repeat it. We want to remember. We want to prevent things like this from happening again.” This powerful statement encapsulates the spirit and intention of the memorial. It’s a call to all to remember the past—both the tragic and triumphant moments—and to honor those who have borne the brunt of our struggles for freedom.
The display at Yonders Point is open to the public and will remain available for viewing through September 11. It invites everyone to come out, take a moment to reflect, and appreciate the costs of our safety. As we walk among the flags, it offers a chance for remembrance and gratitude towards those who have been lost and those who continue to fight for our freedoms every day.
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, take a moment to visit this stunning tribute in Round Rock. It’s more than just a collection of flags; it’s a powerful visual reminder of love, loss, and heroism that is important for all of us to recognize.
