The flag is framed and engraved with the "We are Virginia Tech, We will Prevail" phrase on a brass plate as a gift from NASA, recognizing the long-standing relationship between Virginia Tech and NASA

Astronaut Pat Forrester poses with Virginia Tech students and faculty.

“It was such an honor to be able to represent NASA and the Crew of STS-117 as we returned the Flag to Virginia Tech. The partnership between NASA and Virginia Tech has quite a history,” Forrester said. “NASA has its roots in Virginia and many of our engineers and space flight pioneers came from Virginia Tech including Chris Kraft and Homer Hickam.”

	During a Virginia Tech football game, there was a ceremony on the field to hand over the flag flown on STS-117.

Forrester said it was a moment he will cherish.

“The presentation of the flag was well-received. In fact, the noise in the stadium was deafening. They (Virginia Tech) seemed to really appreciate that others around the Nation are thinking about them and recognizing them during this time of healing. Personally, I will always remember this experience.