Lake Orion fire fighters unfurled a huge, oversized American flag high above M-24 to commemorate Patriot Day on Sept. 11. The spectacle took place across from the Orion Veterans Memorial, which hosted a special ceremony to honor 9/11 first responders and members of the U.S. military on the tenth anniversary of the tragedy that changed the course of history. More than 500 people of all ages, including local police and firemen, emergency medical personnel, military veterans and government dignitaries, packed the memorial to overflow capacity. Remarks honored the bravery of police and firemen who saved so many people on 9/11, as well as those who lost their lives that fateful day. U.S. military personnel also were recognized for their heroic efforts to preserve America’s freedoms today and in the past. At the end of the ceremony, a piece of a girder from the World Trade Center was unveiled. It was acquired by the Orion Township Fire Department and its permanent home has not been determined. Photo by J St. Henry.