Resident’s book describes the realization of a big dream unfurled

A Cribari resident, Len Silverfine, has just published a book “Unless First We Dream, The Story of the Great American Flag,” available through Amazon and other booksellers.

The book recounts the saga of Len’s big dream of breaking the Guiness world record of largest flag prior to the celebration of the bicentennial of the United States in 1976. 

Silverfine thought that a giant American flag welcoming US citizens and the world to the bicentennial celebrations in Washington D.C. would help in bringing joy and a renewed sense of patriotism in post-Vietnam, post-Watergate America. It wasn’t to be, however because the flag did not survive its trial run.

That evening New York’s TV and radio stations were overwhelmed with offers to repair the flag in time for the big event. Repair was not possible, however the outpouring of patriotism the flag sparked was real and not to be ignored. With this palpable outpouring of public sentiment, thus began a campaign to build an even larger flag that would redeem and inspire and become a reality six years later at The Washington Monument as part of Flag Day festivities in 1980.

Silverfine’s book describes the life story of both Great American Flags and the challenges, setbacks and eventual success of installing this 14,000-lb flag in front of The Washington Monument in time for the ceremonies. 

As a symbol of our nation, the Great Flag then welcomed the Iranian Hostages home at Andrews Air Base (1981) and celebrated the First Columbia Shuttle astronauts at New York’s Central Park (1982). And on Flag Day in 1983 the Great Flag was accepted by President Ronald Reagan as a gift to the nation, meant to be unfurled every year at the monument.

Alas, this Great Flag, meant to be a source of pride and inspiration, was consigned to years of dismal storage, “re-gifted,” put on eBay auction, and saved by a Veteran who feared it might fall into wrong hands. 

It’s quite a story. The hope is that you will consider it a good read, and perhaps an important lesson for all Americans, those who remember those times as well as your grandchildren. 

The book is available on Amazon as an eBook, also in hard and soft cover versions on amazon.com.

The author has a limited number of books he is offering for two dollars under the Amazon price and will sign them for you. You may contact him directly at 917-225-5500 or silverfine@me.com