Flags let motorists remember

Members of the Lutz-Land O'Lakes Woman's Club gather on State Road 54 to mark a sad chapter in American history.

[Times photo: Lance Rothstein] A number of passing motorists honked and beeped their approval Thursday as several members of the Lutz-Land O'Lakes Women's Club marked the second anniversary of 9/11 in front of Village Lakes shopping center on State Road 54.

Cheryl Benton plucked an oversized American flag from her Lutz lawn and headed to Land O'Lakes on Thursday.

She and eight other flag-toting members of Lutz-Land O'Lakes Woman's Club gathered along State Road 54 to wave flags and commemorate the second anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

Dressed in green polo shirts and crisp, white trousers, the women grabbed the attention of passers-by.

Even during the hustle and bustle of morning traffic, motorists were quick to show approval. A sheriff's deputy tooted his horn as he cruised past.

"Why, thank you, Mr. Sheriff," club president and organizer Marilyn Wannamaker said.

A loud blast came from the horn of a big rig as it whizzed by. Car horns beeped. Folks saluted. A dog stuck its head out of a window and began to bark. Others just waved.

"We're doing this in memory of those who lost their lives," Wannamaker said. "And also for the troops who keep us free so that this does not happen again."

"Personally, it just made me hurt for all those that were hurting," Benton said. "It was so far away from here, but part of us still grieves. It's something you can't forget."

Last year's flag waving drew a larger crowd, despite a steady drizzle.

"Last year, it was raining and they stayed out there," Wannamaker said. "It's almost like the skies were weeping."

On this breezy morning, no wrist work was even needed. Club members simply held the flags and let the wind blow.

It took only a few folks to make their statement. The participants were few, but the message was meaningful: "United we stand."

Cyndy Menendez and Annette Alexander, both Wal-Mart employees, walked over to thank the women. Someone quickly gave them a small flag and invited them to join.

"We're glad y'all are here. We support you," Menendez said with a smile.

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