On July 2, a moving dedication ceremony was attended by many Slippery Rock citizens as well as political representatives, taking part in the community flag raising of Old Glory — America's symbol of freedom and justice.

Slippery Rock residents show our extreme patriotism and love of country in a number of ways: through banners on lampposts throughout town; the Memorial Park on Main Street; our cemetery; and now the large flag displayed atop our Community Park. The flag is visible from many miles away, giving notice that democracy lives in our small town, as it has in America for 247 years, through times of war and peace!

Living just a mere 150 yards away from Old Glory, it gently waves and reminds me of those who fought and defended our freedom. Those breezes often unfurl the stripes, and I have only heard the flag flap in a brisk wind — enough to view the beauty of the stars and stripes in its entirety! It’s a brief, welcome reminder of the freedoms we enjoy daily.

Many motorcycles pass my home daily, drawing attention to the waving flags visible on the backs of their bikes. Children wave flags at parades. A walk through the cemetery shows flags adorning the graves of the fallen that wave in the wind; they are gentle reminders of our love of country.

I encourage every citizen to visit the flag and read the bricks in tribute to many fallen souls, those who would be proud to see and hear this symbol in a small Pennsylvania town with a huge display of patriotism who are proud of our hometown!

Thank you, Mayor Longo, and your committee for achieving such a beautiful project. It is enjoyed by all!

Nancy J. Baker,

Slippery Rock