Posted 9/19/01 Silent example can be powerful North Branch Mayor John Pinsonneault İ Iím not certain that I can say anything different or more compelling than what has already been spoken by the leaders of our great nation. My sincere sorrow goes out to the many families that have been affected by this cowardly act. I watched the news anxiously to get a perspective of how our nationís leadership would react, I felt relief and pride when the decision was made to execute plans to bring the group or groups responsible to justice by whatever means necessary. Toİtarget innocent civilians is incomprehensible and inexcusable. No actions we take as a nation can change the events and the losses suffered. For the good of not only our country, but nations around the world there should be no barriers set to bring justice to those involved, whether their involvement was direct or indirect. Though the location of these events can seem so distant, make no mistake, it is your backyard. Though it may seem as though there is nothing we can physically do to help, we can pray for the dead and wounded and their families and friends. We can stand behind the decisions of our nations leaders with steadfast resolve. We can show the world that even an act of this magnitude will not shake the nerves of Americans. America has seen itís changes, but one thing has remained intact through the course of our history and that is that when our country faces extreme adversity, it stands on itís back legs with a straight back and roars. As this tragedy unravels and repercussions move to actions, stop and take a good look at your flag and what it really means. I think back to the Mid-summer Days parade and watching peoples reaction as the flag, a few floats in front of me, went by. Both sides of the streets were lined with people and I watched a man stand up from his lawn chair, remove his hat and placeİhisİhandİover his heart. Right next to him a small boyİmoved next to this man, looked at him for a few momentsİand then gave his best attempt at saluting Old Glory. A little girl slid next toİthis boy, not to be out done, and did her best salute. I remember this so vividly, a father not saying any words, instead electing to set a silent example to his two young children. Today is as good as any day to go pay honor to the flag, for that flag represents the many sacrifices made to live in this great country. It is a good day to reflect on the level of patriotism we carry, especially now, in the time of tremendous crisis. More than one aggressive nation has tried to destroy our flag, from Normandy to Korea right through the Gulf War, only to feel the fury of a freedom loving country. Take a few minutes to look at that flag, maybe put one on the boulevard, and when the breeze blows that flag back and forth, realize that it is saluting you, and when you salute it back you are saluting every person who has lost their life not only in defense of this country, but the many people who have lost their lives because they lived under this flag and itís representations. The representation of freedom, opportunity, choices and unity! ©Post Review