Has Patriotism become passé? Are people looking at me today when I stand and show respect for the flag, are they shaking their heads in disbelief thinking, I’m old fashioned? Am I out of step with the majority?
Back in the days, we used to place our hand over our heart and recited the, “Pledge of Allegiance” every morning before school started, even during a parade, as our flag passed. We took our hats off and stood silent while our flag was being raised or the, “National Anthem” was being sung.
My dad taught me to respect our flag and that it should never touch the ground. I even learned how to march as my dad used a broomstick in place of a rifle, placing it over his right shoulder marching in the living room … hup, hup, … at our Kapahulu house.
I am a World War II baby born in 1947, lived through the Korean War, Bay of Pigs, Cuban Missile Crises, and the Vietnam Conflict. I joined the Army in 1966, which influenced my perspective on what it is to live and serve in a country dedicated to freedom and democracy.
Today, I don’t see the same vigilance of patriotism from our younger generations. I don’t believe our places of learning are emphasizing the same patriotism and respect for our country that I was exposed.
I felt, and will always feel; we live in the greatest country in the world, USA … Ten Hut!
Tune in to The Baby Boomer Show with Frank B. Shaner, AM690, every Saturday, 4 pm – 5 pm. Experience his art online through Facebook and at www.frankbshaner.com.
Home Boy – oil on canvas
Frank B. Shaner
