Approximately 3,000 American flags were obtained on loan through the efforts of the Jewish War Veterans. We also met with the JCC Executive Director of Security to gain the necessary approvals. The Jewish Community Relations Council of Southern New Jersey was also involved in planning the event.

In the days preceding 9/11, we met at the JCC campus, and on September 8, 2022, breaking into small teams, we proceeded to plant the flags in the grassy areas around the perimeters of the JCC and the Temple Emanuel Synagogue (now Congregation Kol Ami) across the street. The flags were planted 2 to 3 feet apart and encompassed the entire perimeter of the JCC and a portion of the synagogue. While the majority of the participants were from the SJMC, the Jewish War Veterans Post 126 of South Jersey, and members of various local police departments were also involved, including the Cherry Hill Police Department and the New Jersey State Police.

The JCC and Congregation Kol Ami share an extremely busy corner in Cherry Hill, so this awesome display was viewed by countless vehicles and pedestrians over the course of the week. Much positive feedback was received by the public as they observed us planting the flags. Further enhancing the impact of this program, pictures and commentary were provided to the entire community by the Philadelphia Inquirer and the Jewish Community Voice of Southern New Jersey.
Later in the week, the SJMC removed, cleaned, and returned the flags to the Jewish War Veterans. Some South Jersey Men’s Club members who could not assist with the initial planting helped in the removal.