A Flag, a Memory, and a Heartfelt Thank You
STEPHENVILLE, Texas, September 11, 2026 — A beautiful wooden American flag found a new home Friday afternoon, carrying with it a story of love, remembrance, and gratitude.
At 1:30 p.m., Stephenville resident Julie Outlaw presented the Erath County Volunteer Fire Department with the handcrafted flag in memory of the firefighters who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
Julie’s family is originally from New York, making September 11 a deeply personal day for her.
She spoke about the firefighters and first responders who, while others were desperately trying to escape the devastation, ran toward it, climbing the stairs without knowing whether they would ever return.
But the flag itself carries another personal story.
It belonged to Julie’s late fiancé, Chet, and over the years, she had opportunities to sell it. She never could.
“It never felt like something that should have a price,” Julie said.
As this year’s anniversary approached, she realized exactly where she wanted it to be.
“This flag belongs somewhere where courage, sacrifice, service, and love of the USA are lived every day,” Julie told the firefighters.
Julie thanked the department for the sacrifices its volunteer firefighters make every day, leaving their homes and families to respond when someone in their community needs help.
The flag was given in memory of the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on September 11, 2001, in honor of all first responders, and in loving memory of Chet.
“May it always be a reminder that your courage is seen, your sacrifices matter, and you are deeply appreciated,” Julie said.
Twenty-five years later, we remember. We honor. We will never forget.
