To honor the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania, NASA flew nearly 6000 4"x6" American flags aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-108.

Labeled the "Flags for Heroes and Families" campaign, the flags accompanied the 12th Shuttle mission to the International Space Station, logging 4.8 million miles over the course of 11 days, 19 hours, and 36 minutes above Earth.

Post-flight, students working at Johnson Space Center assisted in assembling commemorative packages, including the U.S. flags flown in space, to be presented to relatives of the victims.

Distribution of the flag presentations began on June 14, 2002, National Flag Day, at a special ceremony held at the American Museum of Natural History's Rose Center for Earth and Space in New York.

NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe reflected "The tradition of carrying American flags into space dates back to the very beginning of this historic agency. From the surface of the Moon to the unchartered regions of our galaxy, NASA has flown the American flag as a patriotic symbol of truth, honor and justice."

The presentation, signed by O'Keefe, reads:

In deep appreciation for the sacrifices you endured and to share our respect for your loved ones, this American flag was flown aboard the United States Space Shuttle Endeavour during STS-108, the 12th Shuttle mission to the International Space Station, December 5 - 17, 2001.

Presented in Recognition of The Heroes Who Lost Their Lives in New York City, The Pentagon, and Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001.