Westy’s & Freedom Road
In a moment that stirred the heart of a nation, a group of American hostages held captive in Iran for 444 days finally returned home – and the Village of Highland Falls, along with the United States Military Academy at West Point, showed the world what it means to honor heroes.
The hostage crisis in Iran gripped the nation for what felt like an eternity. The Americans – diplomats, military personnel, and civilians – were imprisoned under grueling conditions, with their fate uncertain for months that turned into years. But when that long-awaited day came, when freedom rang once more and those brave men and women stepped onto American soil, it was more than just a homecoming. It was a testament to resilience, service, and the unbreakable spirit of the American people. Nowhere was that spirit more alive than in the heart of the Hudson Valley – the Village of Highland Falls and West Point. As the buses rolled in and the American flag waved proudly from every storefront, porch, and telephone pole, it was clear that this was no ordinary welcome. This was a celebration of freedom.
While we have all seen yellow ribbons being worn and adorning businesses and residences, over the last 20 years; in 1981, they were not as common. However, on that Sunday in January 1981, the yellow ribbons were everywhere. Highland falls residents wore yellow ribbons while standing on the streets lined with trees and light posts with yellow ribbons. Veterans stood at attention. The Superdome, host to the Superbowl, even had a yellow ribbon around the stadium. The yellow ribbons symbolized the safe return of our American heroes.
For many in Highland Falls, this moment was personal. Families here know what it means to serve and have family members in harms way. They understand sacrifice, and they honor it without hesitation. The U.S. Military Academy – perched just above the village on the cliffs of the Hudson River – serves as a daily reminder of the values that define the nation: Duty, Honor, Country. On that day, those values were more than words etched in stone – they were alive in every embrace, salute, and tearful smile.
Holly has a unique connection to that day. Holly’s dad, USMA Class of ’62, served as the Treasurer of the Academy that year. He was given the distinct honor of planning and overseeing the welcome and overnight stay of the hostages and their families at the Thayer Hotel. He stated that it was an honor of a lifetime, and he can attest that everyone assigned to the Welcoming Committee did not leave one stone unturned to ensure these great Americans were taken care of. And Holly sister was interviewed on Good Morning America!
In Highland Falls and West Point, their return was not just headlines, it was a chapter in the ongoing story of American resilience – and a reminder of how Americans just like the ones in Highland Falls and West Point come together to honor heroes. At Westy’s, we are honored to have our business in Highland Falls and look forward to honoring heroes with you.
GO ARMY! BEAT NAVY!!
Holly and Mark West
Owners, Westy’s
