BLANCHARD ELEMENTARY
PROJECT STARS AND STRIPES 2001
The students of Blanchard
Elementary undertook a meaningful and heartfelt project. They were asked
to use a 12" x 14" square of material to express their feelings about the
tragedies of September 11, 2001. This American Flag, measuring 39' X
24.5', was the result of their efforts. Life as these children knew it had
been changed forever, and we wanted to make sure that that change was a positive
one. No one knew at that time the students were creating what would be
such a perfect symbol of our freedom. The purpose of this project was to
allow the students to show their love and support, share their feelings and
thoughts, and most of all, to teach them that their voice could be heard
regardless of age, race or religion. The students of Blanchard Elementary
simply made tangible what it means to be an American. Thank you for
hearing their voices.
In June 2001 this flag was displayed at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. It was part of the Army's 227th birthday on June 14th, 2002. Blanchard students, faculty, and parents were part of the celebration held in the Pentagon Courtyard. Handley Boyd, a Blanchard student, was made an honorary private and helped with the cake cutting.
