How Does 9/11 Flag Get on the Perrine Bridge?

The events of September 11, 2001, stick with most of us. It is a moment in history that will never be forgotten, and unlike many historic moments in books that we read in school, it was an event that many alive lived through. Odds are you remember where you were, what you were doing, and who you were with that day. You may have been an adult, a parent, or a child, but you likely remember it as if it occurred the other day. The world has never been the same, and 2,977 people lost their lives that day. It is still the biggest terrorist attack in history. Twin Falls does an amazing job every year of remembering these lost lives and events, and it is that time once again.

9/11 Memorial Event in Twin Falls

For those new to the Magic Valley or perhaps forgot since last year, the area hosts an event each year honoring and remembering the events of 9/11. Many events are happening around the Magic Valley this weekend in honor of 9/11. There are flags representing each life lost in Jerome at Crossroads Point. There will be a flag walk, a memorial and patriotic celebration, and a flag cruise, to name a few. One of the best parts of the event, though, is the massive flag that hangs across the canyon from the Perrine Bridge each year. It is something you won't see anywhere else and is a spectacle you won't want to miss. Watching America's flag wave in the wind above the canyon, during a sunset or sunrise, is one of the most incredible sights you will ever see. Each year, though, many ask, 'How do they get the big flag to hang from the bridge, and who hangs it?'

How is the Big Flag in Idaho Hung From the Perrine Bridge?

Hanging a flag the size of the one used for the 9/11 Memorial Event isn't easy. It isn't as simple as running a flag up the flagpole. The flag is 150 by 78, which is an astounding 11,800 square feet, which is one-fourth of an acre. The flag weighs 400 pounds and takes a team to raise and hang it. You can watch the video above to see how the team prepares and begins to get the flag in the air. Members from the Sheriff's Search and Rescue team, Twin Falls Fire Department, and a special operations team called S.O.R.T. all work together to get the huge flag flying. It begins with boats in the Snake River using drones to send up lines to the top of the canyon, and is suspended by Kevlar lines. 

Get our free mobile app

The flag will stay up until September 20, giving residents, tourists, and those wanting to see it plenty of time to take in Ole Glory. For all the details on the events happening this week, as well as more on the 9/11 Memorial Event, make sure to click the link in the paragraph above. If you recognize anyone in the video, make sure to thank them for their hard work and for helping this big flag fly and show American pride in the Magic Valley.