At 10:45 am on July 16th, 2015 in Chattanooga, Tennessee a terrorist attacked the recruiting center then proceeded to attack the Naval Support Center and Marine Reserve Center.
Chattanooga and America would forever be changed in the wake of bloodshed on American soil against uniformed active-duty personnel at their assigned posts. Purple heart medals are rarely earned off the battlefield. The attack was cold blooded, cowardly, and was an act not rooted in a worthy cause.
Our dear brothers will never be forgotten for their sacrifices in keeping this country strong, united, and safe. Their honor, courage, and faithfulness are exemplified year after year as individuals seek to unite in ways that pay homage to the Fallen Five’s enduring memory. The courage to stand for the American flag is demonstrated at each memorial event as Chattanooga has a rich military history.
Action is preceded by a decision to commit. A commitment to “NEVER FORGET” means to take important actions in support of the statement to NEVER FORGET. Persistent resolve is the enduring American spirit, and it does not wane in the face of time but becomes galvanized in resolute determination to achieve one’s own end in a means fittingly described as honorable. That which we sew, that which we protect, that which we harvest in actuality – is life, precious life.
From creation to end – we value life as humans, as Americans, and for ourselves. When life is unjustly taken from us we find a deep sense of grief to which we mourn and find sources of healing. Some of us drive, some run, some cry, some mourn, or live in ways we find fitting for a wholeness we had before. We must, however, NEVER FORGET the FALLEN FIVE. So long as I am alive, I will NEVER FORGET the FALLEN FIVE. God Bless them, their families, Chattanooga, and America!
For 2025 I will run the American Flag from the Naval Support Center across Veteran’s Bridge in honor of the Fallen Five after the 11:00 am ceremony at the Wreath of Honor. Anyone is welcome to join in the run with an American Flag along Amnicola Hwy or the Riverwalk. Participants may drive, ride, run, bike, boat, float, or fly with an American flag to show their support.
Joshua David Kapellusch