The "An American Quilt" project was displayed with great dignity at the Naumberg Band Shell in Central Park. Many family members were present to talk with the public who came to pay their respects. Everyone took great care as they walked around the panels, pausing to read the shared love letters, look at the family photos, and reflect on the lives lost.

The collection of quilted panels was varied and it was very interesting how differently the families chose to capture their loved one’s spirit. One even had a remote control attached. It was interesting to watch an individual point out some detail they had discovered to another family member or a total stranger.

The news media was there to interview the families and document the event. Another video crew was documenting the entire process of the quilt display. There was also a video player showing the quilt makers discussing their loved ones and the inspiration behind the making of their particular panel.

Bill Bace, the director of the project, was explaining the future plans for quilt displays. He hopes that the other families of the Twin Towers, Firefighters, Pentagon, PA plane crash, and Afghanistan Military Casualties will contribute quilts in memory of their loved ones for future displays. It is an ongoing project. The next display is August 31 on the Mall in Washington DC.

The causalities of Operation Enduring Freedom were displayed near each other. The 75th Ranger Battalion was represented. I saw one young man kneeling in front of the panel contributed by the Rangers of the 3^rd Battalion. He was reading and contemplating the Ranger Creed for nearly fifteen minutes. As he got up and walked away, this young man’s visible tears touched my spirit.

My son’s friend, Andy came with me to NYC as my escort. We sat for quite some time just watching the people pausing before each panel and stooping down to read all the fine print. Andy asked me if I thought this project was a comfort for the families. When I first arrived, I was unsure of what I had hoped to gain by being there. Maybe it was just for my promise to take photos. However, the time afforded to observe the event, gave me a whole different perspective.

Yes, it most definitely was a comfort to see the public’s recognition of the tragic loss for the victims of September 11th and their respect for the sacrifice of the Firefighters and Military. Healing comes in all shape and sizes especially from the tears of a total stranger who stopped to read what the Rangers do each and everyday.

Check the An American Quilt site for the current schedule and most current information.