PROUD of the Red, White & Blue

As many were beginning to awaken on a fine Wednesday morning, the Volunteer Fire Department was already making their rounds and erecting the colors of our nation – red, white & blue – beneath the silvery stars before the full splendor of the awakening of dawn. Yes, old Glory is being celebrated on Flag Day, June 14th.

On the 14th of June in 1777, Second Continental Congress passed a resolution that our flag would be 13 stripes alternating red and white; that the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation. The U.S. Army also celebrates its birthday on this date.

In some places, there will be parades and celebrations. But, not here. We were fortunate to have a fairly decent Memorial Day Parade last month…we will wave this one on.

Where do we stand when it comes to paying respect to our Flag? Did you ever stop to think about the early flags that were carried forth into battles like Gettysburg? What did it take to storm into a conflict, not having a chance to tell your loved ones good-bye? Were those men even able to tell their loved ones where they were and that they were fighting for your life and mine knowing there was no way anyone would ever repay them?

What does it take to be called an American today? I for one, am not able to join the armed forces; I should have given it consideration in my younger years…who knows where I’d be. My Dad served proudly in the US Army in a land called Korea, and my son served in the US Army National Guard. Because of their commitment and sacrifices, I am lending my time and energy to the VFW and American Legion Auxiliaries to keep alive what they offered to die for.

Am I doing enough to be called an American? Probably not. I have cut back on organizations and ventures that take my time, yet do not put pride in my heart. I am making an effort. I am doing more for those programs at the State level and will share my unending love for our country with any one with time to listen.

I have penned my commitment to the red, white & blue into poems that I share with others. I love to listen to the old veterans, and hear their wisdom as they share memories. With each positive action I feel one step closer to being able to stand with those who are heroes.

America has a face of pain right now and we need to release that pain by standing up for what is right, following laws, helping our brothers and sisters and extending a hand to those who reach out in need.

At Gettysburg I stood in awe at the history that died with the hundreds on those battle grounds. At Washington, D.C. I traced the names of the men from Phillips County who left this world by leaving their name on the wall and only memories in hearts.

Given any day, I will gladly meet you at D.C. or Arlington. I’ll be the one holding the red, white, & blue. You might see memories slipping down my cheek. They are there for a good cause. I love America.

Fly STRONG Old Glory! May you forever wave.