A MESSAGE FROM THE DEPARTMENT COMMANDER:

PATRIOT DAY – September 11

David Brambila, Department Commander

Fellow Comrades,

On this solemn day, we pause to remember and honor the 2,977 innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001. That day of unimaginable tragedy also marked the beginning of the War on Terror — a conflict that would span two decades, call upon millions of our brothers and sisters in uniform, and reshape the course of history.

That war, which began in the ashes of 9/11, closed its final chapter on August 26, 2021, with the ultimate sacrifice of 13 brave American service members killed in Kabul during the final evacuation. They stood as the last watch in a conflict that began on the day we now remember — linking their heroism to the courage shown on September 11, 2001.

Today, we also honor all who answered the call during the War on Terror — those who served, those who continue to serve, and those who still carry the weight of that war in their hearts and minds. Your service and sacrifice safeguarded our nation and defended the freedoms that define us as Americans.

In the days following 9/11, we stood united — not as individuals divided by politics or differences, but as one nation, indivisible. We must not allow the spirit of unity forged in the wake of tragedy to be lost to divisiveness. Our strength has always come from standing together.

As Commander of the American Legion Department of California, I will be standing watch over 2,977 flags displayed in the City of Corona, Area 5, District 21. These flags will fly around the clock from September 10th through September 14th to mark the 24th anniversary of that tragic day — each one bearing the name of a life lost.

May we never forget where this war began — and may we always remember those who gave their last full measure, and all who stood watch in the long years between.

With honor and respect,

David Brambila
Commander, American Legion Department of California