Re: “His spat with the flag ladies over, Jamie Roux speaks out” (Jan. 10): I was glad to hear Jamie Roux’s perspective on 9/11 and the Freeport Flag Ladies.

I remember Sept. 11, 2001, in Freeport. I remember the two women who responded to this horrible, scary act by standing on a street corner waving flags on Tuesday mornings.

It was part of the national response to stand united. Every sign in front of a business or church read “God Bless America” or something similar.

While I too felt the fear, shock and need to stand together, I was uneasy about the simplistic reduction of our response into “flag” and “God.” I felt there were more things to consider, like the way America was perceived in the world.

As our president was deciding whether to strike back at someone, the two women were still there, every Tuesday morning. They weren’t standing there for the troops or the veterans, yet. It was their thing, and they were getting attention.

Every time I drove by, they leaned out, trying to catch the driver’s eye and waved vigorously. If I didn’t wave back or honk, it made me feel like I was a bad person. I love my country, but I didn’t agree with the rush to fight. These ladies were free to express their opinions symbolically, but I resented their aggressiveness.

Fourteen years later, they’re still there. I avoid Main Street on Tuesday mornings, and have for years. A lot has happened since then.

They’ve expanded to three, acquired a beautiful Stars and Stripes Flag Ladies van and clothing, and do commendable work with our veterans and returning troops.

I understand Jamie Roux’s frustration. Isn’t it time to put down the flag- waving around 9/11 and continue the work of healing and peace-making?

Libby Moore

Freeport

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