Honor those who died in 9/11 attacks

As we approach the sixth anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, we need to honor all those who lost their lives on that day and to remember all those who ensure our freedoms on a daily basis. There was a true spirit of patriotism and feeling of love of country right after 9/11. Somehow today that spirit is not there. We do not see as many American flags being flown; we do not thank our first responders as much as we did then; and the men and women who put on the uniform of the United States need to be honored and thanked on a daily basis.

That spirit that lived in all of us in this country has faded away, that spirit of bringing cookies to the local fire house just to say thanks, or putting the American flag on your front door with pride. That yellow ribbon on your car has now faded. We can never forget what happened that day. We can never forget those brave men and women who everyday go out and risk their lives to ensure the freedoms that we hold so true.

On Sunday (Sept. 9) at 9 a.m. in Gateway Park across from Navy Pier there will be a freedom walk. Freedom walks are being held across the country in 42 states as a way of remembering all those who lost their lives on 9/11 and to honor all those who ensure our freedoms each and every day of the year. Chicago is the largest city in the nation to participate, and we need to show the rest of the country that we here in Illinois have that pride, that we do honor all those who ensure our freedoms and that we will never forget those lives that were lost on 9/11.

You can participate in this by going to www.operationhomefront.net/Illinois and sign up for the Freedom Walk. There is no charge to participate, and it is a way to thank all those who make sure that we live in a country that is free and safe.

Eric Schuller, president

Operation

Homefront Illinois

Willowbrook