Memorial flag on its journey across all 50 states honoring the fallen on September 11, 2001

Time: 10 a.m.
Location Changed: Publix at South Walton, 2038 U.S. Hwy. 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach

The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) will hoist a 60 by 30 foot American “Patriot” flag at the Publix at South Walton, 2038 U.S. Hwy. 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach on Monday, Jan. 17, 2011. The Patriot Flag is part of a yearlong memorial leading up to the tenth anniversary of September 11, 2001.

The Patriot Flag program was established by a group of firefighters in California.  The goal of this program is to have this flag fly in all 50 states in 50 weeks. It began on September 10, 2010 and the flag will end its tour on September 11, 2011 at the site of the World Trade Center.

South Walton was selected as the first community in Florida for the prestigious honor of flying this flag.

“It’s a great honor to participate in this program, the Patriot Flag and this entire observance is really dedicated to all those who gave their lives and those who continue to sacrifice in support of freedom.   In addition, we have the added distinction that we are commemorating sacrifice for the cause of freedom on the day we honor Martin Luther King, who sacrificed his life for civil rights and freedom for all men,” said Sean Hughes, Deputy Chief.

The SWFD will suspend the flag from its ladder truck beginning at 10 a.m.  The SWFD is welcoming all the members of our community to join us to honor, remember and commemorate all who serve and sacrifice in the name of freedom.

For more information concerning the Patriot Flag ceremony please contact Sean Hughes at shughes@swfd.org or 850-267-1298.