It is no secret that Chillicothe is like many other small, Midwestern communities where patriotism runs high.
But do we only give it lip service, or can it be seen by others?
After Sept. 11, 2001, we, as Americans, united as we watched in horror the news footage of the attacks at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
We lost no time in rallying for our country and our troops.
Red, white and blue was in high demand all over the country.
Less than nine years later, do we still show the same outward display of patriotism that we did previously?
Chillicothe area resident Judy McColl is spearheading a campaign to buy 50 flags for $50 apiece to fly around the business districts of the community.
She began the quest after noticing a lack of flags flying high in Chillicothe on the Fourth of July.
While the city does not have the funds for the flags, according to Mayor Troy Childers Sr., McColl is soliciting donations from businesses, individuals and organizations.
Donations for the project may be sent to American Legion Post 9 at 1043 N. Second St.
With the increase of flags planned for businesses, now would be a good time for residents also to think about how they can properly hang the flag outside their homes.
Many years ago, photographs showed a huge display of flags and bunting in downtown Chillicothe, which, at that time, was the main business district.
Maybe it is time to go back to yesteryear and hang our patriotism for all to see.
