For those of you who were fortunate enough to be able to attend the ceremony and raising of the flag on July 1 at Slippery Rock Community Park, no need to read this, but for those of you who weren’t there, read on.

The raising of that immense, beautiful American flag, while listening to “God Bless America” and “The Star-Spangled Banner,” was incredible — and moving! One could not help but feel the emotion and pride of being an American! The ceremony was attended by congressmen, local politicians and around 250 patriotic citizens.

I want to thank Mayor Jondavid Longo and Matt Kovacik for their inspiration. They and numerous others gave their time, effort and money in order to bring this event to fruition. The brick memorial was beautifully constructed, displaying the names of loved ones who fought for this country … those willing to make the ultimate sacrifice if necessary.

Thank you to all of the veterans and others who have helped this country over the years and currently to make the United States of America into the great nation it is today. Thank you, Mayor Longo, and all of you who helped in remembering them in this wonderful endeavor!

No matter whether one is entering town from the north, south, east or west, he or she will see that beautiful American flag proudly waving above the trees, and it makes me proud to be an American!

Angela Tonelli Koch,

Slippery Rock