On Sunday, September 11, 2022, a few members of American Legion, Neal Thomas Jr.-Centennial Post 209 in Colorado Springs, CO went on an almost three mile walk waving our flags to remember and honor our first responders, military, and the thousands of Americans who lost their lives on that fateful 2001 day. All along the way, we were met with horns honking as cars drove by and people shouting their support. They instinctively knew what we were doing and why we were there.

We formed at the Memorial Park in front of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial and walked to the Fallen Firefighter's Memorial about a mile away. While there, we met retired NY Firefighter Sean Genovese (see photo). He served with Squad 41 during that time and visits this Memorial each year to remember and honor the men he served with who lost their lives saving others. It was an honor to meet and visit with him and his family.

After leaving the Fallen Firefighter's Memorial, we walked around the small Prospect Park lake to the Peace Officer's Memorial. As with each stop along the way, Post 209 Adjutant Doug Millison shared some thoughts about why we need to continue events such as this to keep the memories alive for those who gave so much.

Our walk on this overcast and cool morning ended back at the GWOT Memorial. While the walk was short, this meaningful event to honor and remember is lasting.