A Patriot Flag measuring 30' x 50' was flown in Skokie on Wednesday. Hank Sajovic photo
From Hank Sajovic, Lieutenant, Skokie Truck Co. No. 18:
The Skokie Fire Department hosted a Patriot Flag on June 16, 2011. The flag is traveling across the country and will fly in all 50 states. During the week of September 11, 2011, it will fly at all three locations were Americans were killed on 9/11/2001. The 30′ x 50′ flag was flown from Skokie Truck Co. No. 18 at the corner of Skokie Blvd and Golf Road. Members of the Skokie Fire and Police Honor Guard units provided the honors at the raising.
Firefighters and officers carry the Patriot Flag so that it can be affixed to the ladder sections of Skokie Truck 18. Hank Sajovic photo
As the flag is secured to the extended aerial ladder, the Honor Guard featuring police officers and firefighters is seen in the background. Hank Sajovic photo
The flag unfurls as the ladder is raised. Hank Sajovic photo
More of the enormous flag is visible as the ladder goes higher. Hank Sajovic photo
The full stature of the flag is visible with Skokie's ladder as a support. Hank Sajovic photo
Members of the police and fire department honor guard. Hank Sajovic photo
The flag waves proudly above the honor guard. Hank Sajovic photo
The immense stature of the enormous flag can be seen here towering over the parking lot and Skokie Truck 18. Hank Sajovic photo
A banner with the names of all who perished on 9/11 travels with the flag. Hank Sajovic photo
Proud members of the Skokie police and fire departments at the presentation of the Patriot Flag. Hank Sajovic photo ... that's Hank kneeling on the far left ...
Captain Dan Smith Skokie FPB, Jim Walters Skokie Deputy Chief and retired FDNY Lt Joe Torrillo who survived the collapse of both towers (at separate times. He was trapped in the first tower, rescued and then trapped on a rescue boat when the second one collapsed.) Hank Sajovic photo
The Trib Local (Skokie Edition) has an article HERE about the flag’s journey. Some excerpts from the article:
The Patriot Flag is traveling across the country in all 50 states and on September 11, 2011, it will fly at the three locations where Americans were killed on 09/11/01.
During the week of June 14, the flag will be in Illinois and is scheduled to fly in the following locations:
6/14 – Chicago (rumored to be at McCormick Place) – Flag Day
6/15 – Orland Park & Joliet
6/16 – Skokie & Morton Grove
6/18 – Marseilles (Middle East Conflict Memorial Wall)
6/19 – Springfield
The Patriot Flag story can be found HERE.
