Peace Lutheran of Gulf Shores sponsors Flags of Peace 9-11 ceremony

Peace Lutheran of Gulf Shores sponsors Flags of Peace 9-11 ceremony

Peace Lutheran Church of Gulf Shores will host a Flags of Peace event from Sept. 9 through Sept. 12 featuring a field of American flags flying in unison on the grassy area in front of the church just off the Foley Beach Express (8250 Roscoe Rd.).
In a measured grid, these flags will provide a walk-through memorial as a way to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 9-1-1 tragedy.
On Sept. 11, the church will host a ceremony with special services, family oriented activities and musical performances. Food will also be available.
“Our plan is to not only make this a day of remembering but to also allow it to be a time for family enjoyment,’’ said event organizer Karla Thornton.
Sponsors can purchase a 3X5 U.S. flag on a 7-foot flagpole to participate in the memorial, and patrons are welcome to customize the pole with ribbons, pictures, pinwheels or other personal momentos.
At the end of the event, the flag and pole will be available for supporters to take back to their home or business. Cost is $35 to sponsor each flag, and corporate sponsorships are also available. Proceeds will benefit the church’s Helping Kids Thrive program and local first responder organizations.
Thornton has already lined up various military branches, veterans groups, youth groups and local fire, police and EMT personnel to participate.
“Everyone remembers where they were when it happened,” Thornton said. “This tragedy brought us together as families and friends. We called people just to touch base and make sure they were alright. We came together as a country and our leaders were behind us. It has been almost 20 years since that unforgettable day. How about being part of an event that will draw folks together again?’’ For more info or to sponsor a flag, email peacelutheranchurch8250@gmail.com or visitpeacelutheranal. org or call 251-974-2545.
Pictured: (l to r) John Thornton, Rachel Savage Karen Shields, Belinda Johnson and Jimmy Shields.