Sometimes a great idea appears capable of mysteriously overcoming every challenge by itself. The “Flags for the Fallen” project was just such an idea.

At seven weeks prior to Memorial Day, our club president, Bill Beamish, was suddenly struck with this great idea and the realization that he needed to convince the club membership that this project could be completed on time.

Once under way, the need for additional outside support became obvious, so we began sharing Bill’s great idea with the community. Then the extraordinary occurred, the great idea itself so engaged the community that with their help all of the challenges were overcome. Mystery solved!

Financial support was provided by the Noon Rotary Club, VFW Post No. 7507, Noon Kiwanis Club, Paul’s ACE Hardware, Fore Peaks Sales Group’s loan of 60 A-frame signs, Cub Scout Pack No. 243’s loan of the 50 state flags, and Fountain Hills Middle School’s printing of the color posters of war and 9/11 scenes.

Physical support was provided by Boy Scout Troops 343 and 444, Girl Scout Troop No. 1177, Boys and Girls Club members working with Noon Rotary Club’s many volunteers, the Fountain Hills Christian Home Education students who constructed the ship models for the Pearl Harbor display, and the many individuals who offered to assist during the various set-up and tear-down phases.

Problem solving support was provided by Alan Poor, Dennis Contino, Tony Pistilli and Michelle Holcomb.

The final proof of this great idea’s engaging draw on the community became apparent with the size of the crowd attending the Memorial Day ceremony and spending time viewing the displays of Pearl Harbor, 9/11 and Flags for the Fallen.

For your support, we thank you one and all. It simply could not have been done without you.