James Davis: “I rise in honor of the Bayshore Patriots, a group of four proud Americans from Tampa whose patriotism inspired thousands…”

“I rise in honor of the Bayshore Patriots, a group of four proud Americans from Tampa whose patriotism inspired thousands of people from across Tampa Bay to join together this morning for "Flags Along Bayshore: Tampa Remembers 9-11," an event to remember those lost in the September 11 attacks and honor those who protect and serve our nation every day. The Bayshore Patriots--Linda Alfonso, Julie Sargent, Julie Whitney, and Bill Hamblin--have gathered every Friday afternoon since September 11th to wave flags on Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa, a major route for service men and women who work on MacDill Air Force Base. Through their simple act--the waving of a flag--this group has shown their support for troops in the Tampa Bay area and sent a message that terrorism will not destroy Americans' love of country. The Bayshore Patriots' spirit and dedication has invigorated the Tampa Bay community as more and more flag wavers join the group each week and passing motorists honk their horns in support.”