This picture was taken in Iraq on 9 September 2003 by the Baker Company, 7th Marines, 1st Battalion, to honor the victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks on the U.S.

According to the Rock Hill, South Carolina, Herald:
Helmets atop rifles honored the day so many died. Four U.S. Marines in Iraq held Old Glory a few feet off the desert sand. Dozens of others stood around them, spelling out a special message. The unit assembled Tuesday in a formation of husbands and sons and helmets and weapons that spelled out, "9-11: We Remember."

Lt. Andrew Schoenmaker, 25, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and executive officer of Baker Company and his commanding officer bandied about the idea for a picture to send home to the United States signifying that the unit is still in Iraq, but the pose ended up honoring the Sept. 11, 2001, victims.

"It is in remembrance of those that gave the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, and the reason that no matter how long we are here, we will continue to push and never forget why we serve," Andrew wrote in an e-mail to his father.

"The proud warriors of Baker Company wanted to do something to pay tribute to our fallen comrades. Since we are part of the only Marine Infantry Battalion left in Iraq, the one way that we could think of doing that is by taking a picture of Baker Company saying the way we feel. It would be awesome if you could find a way to share this with our fellow countrymen. I was wondering if there was any way to get this into your papers to let the world know that "WE HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN" and are proud to serve our country." ... Semper Fi ... 1stSgt Dave Jobe