Great thread, Everyone!!! Thanks so much for sharing your pictures of your families and their history with us. Tony Eeds, I have yet to see a post by you I did not like.
Look I’m tired of political conformity, affirmative action, 8th, 9th, and 10th strikes for losers. No more excuses for the criminally stupid.
Patriotism , ... people it started before 9/11/01 ... It brings to mind my attendance at the Stanley cup play-offs. When Detroit came to play the Hurricanes their fan base was an enormous presence here in Raleigh, everyone was vocal about the cup staying in a US team’s hands, but what really sticks in my mind were the Montreal, and Toronto fans. They, for the most part, were very courteous, and when the US national anthem was sung those that were sitting near me joined right in, (every game). That’s uncalled for respect. I was sure to watch the “Tron-Screen” to return the favor in O’ Canada. It left a huge lump in my throat, even more so than usual. Patriotism is not something you learn, it’s how you feel. I served from 84’ to 87’ and never saw action. After basic and AIT, I never left Ft. Carson other than training for two months in Ft Irwin. I don’t feel like a vet and I don’t ever take credit for serving my country, though I would have gone to combat in an instant. I point out that our greatest are those who have been in the theater of hostilities whether on foreign soil or our own, the uniform does not matter, the rank is insignificant, soldier, law enforcement or rescuer these are the patriots who answer the call everyday. I remember in my first week of basic training, we were on a march and at about 4:50 our Drill Sergeant halts the formation and instructs us on the history of the calling of taps, and how we should think of fellow comrades whom have fallen in duty before us. As he finished and as the bugle call began I could see he was in tears. This guy became one of the strongest persons I know and is still an inspiration to me today. I am so thankful I live in this country, I expect to die here, and with the fanaticism of some outsiders, I gladly would to defend this country. Though at my age a national militia would be the only way to serve.
One last comment, respect your flag, respect your anthem, respect your fellow citizens, and respect yourself, if these things are a bother to you … then LEAVE!
And GOD bless America!