Like the nation, Clark Lake remembers the anguish of September 11, 2001. That morning started as any other day—clear skies on a crisp September morning. But 2,977 of those who went to work in the twin towers, the Pentagon, or were on Flight 93 would never return home to their families. The terrorist attack robbed them of life, deprived their loved ones of a lifetime of joy, and awakened a nation to a new chapter in its history.
Recognizing the impact of this event, Chris Donahue created a memorial on the shores of Clark Lake. In this video you’ll view a remarkable display—2,977 American flags planted on his lawn on the south side, east end.
As Chris embarked on this tribute, he began to realize that planting nearly 3000 flags in the shape of a heart took planning—and knowledge. He reached out to Ido Sarig who, while at MIT, helped people conquer the fear of geometry through his website. Ido gave him the geometry and measurements. But the process didn’t stop there. Cody Wallace, a landscaper, stopped by to check on some work he was doing for Chris. Cody helped get the 40 foot area close to square and the 20 degree radius set for the two semi-circles that formed the shape. Mike McKay noticed the activity. Mike explained the precise measurements for a 40 foot square. Mike, and his wife Teresa, brought down 100-foot measuring tapes, along with needed words of encouragement. Neighbor Dr. Ray Clark cut foot-long 2x4s to aid in keeping things aligned. Mike and Jill O’Donoghue also checked in with words of encouragement.
Chris says he owes Carmen and Penuche for their patience and amazing behavior to just watch and observe versus run through and play.
Finally, Chris comments: “I’ve always wanted to do this, am exhausted, and couldn’t imagine the size. But what’s interesting is there’s a sense of calmness at the sheer number of people that perished that day—all because someone didn’t like us and wanted to destroy our freedom and liberty.”
Beautiful Chris.
Thank You
Flip
Bravo for a stirring tribute and memorial, and for flawless execution of the design
Really something. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and effort. A reminder to never forget…and to honor those souls
What a wonderful tribute to the men and women who died on that tragic day. We will never forget. Thanks, Chris.
This really moved me in many ways. It is such an inspiration to see how an idea to pay loving tribute to those that died can turn into something like this when we come together to show that we will never forget. Our community never ceases to amaze me. Thank you to everyone who had a part in this. It makes me so proud to be an American and a Clark Lake resident.
This is a phenomenal tribute to the fallen Americans on 9/11. It took an incredible effort on Chris’ part, which just shows how deep his heart goes. Thank you Chris.
Nice job, and what an effort to go to to recognize these fallen victims of terror. If more of us spent time like this giving back we would all be living in a better world. Many thanks to my brother who himself is a veteran of Military service!
Awesome job Chris!
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing, and expressing your patriotism. GOD BLESS THE USA.
Just beautiful and an amazing tribute to those who perished. Thank you Chris!
God Bless for what you have done !!
What a wonderful idea. But more importantly, you ACTED on it and allowed others to be involved. Great job, Chris Q Lane!
Chris,
Awesome job, I shared this story at my son’s school this past week as I was invited to his school to be honored on veterans day. We discussed what it means to be a military veteran and a first responder.
God Bless America!
This is just awesome and such an amazing tribute to those who are no longer with us or their families!
Chris—You are to be commended for your thoughtful and meaningful idea and making it happen!
Showing respect and honor for those who perished on that horrible day, and to their families who will mourn a lifetime.
Chris, This tribute is amazing for so many reasons.
You took the initiative.
Others helped.
It resulted in another opportunity for all of us to share the events of that day with those that are to young to remember.
History is so important. It makes us stronger in our resolve to what we hold dear.
Thank you for all you do.
What an amazing show of love and respect for our country and the heros that keep us safe. I wish Houston wasn’t so far. That would have been great to see in person.
How humbling and amazing! Heartfelt thanks for sharing this awesome tribute in remembrance of all of the men, women and children who perished on 9/11. Love and peace, Chris!!