 |
Flag Day -- "Old Glory"
(June 14, 2009) |
 |
|
| SOUTHWEST ASIA (6/14/2009 - AFNS) --
Patriotism, simply defined, is devotion to one's country. In
some nations this devotion is expressed more passionately
and openly than in others, but loyalty to one's homeland is
a natural and common emotion. Such patriotic feeling often
lies quietly within the breast of a population and may not
have a highly visible expression until times of national
tragedy or threat.
For example, America's patriotism sat lightly on the sleeves
of a citizenry that had come to feel complacently secure
within its borders, but it gained massive public display
following the national threat perceived after 9/11.
America's armed forces have always served patriotically and
courageously, sacrificing bravery with valor for the very
price of freedom. Freedom is never given. It must be taken,
protected and preserved for generations. In the struggle for
freedom, great deeds have been accomplished, lives have been
given and honor has been sustained. Nothing speaks greater
to the tradition of the United States military than flag and
drill ceremonies.
As a proud Air Force member, I had numerous opportunities to
contribute to the legacy of the red, white, and blue Star
Spangled Banner. From various human remains, or HR,
ceremonies on a C-130 Hercules and C-5 Galaxy, to my almost
two years serving on the Travis Air Force Base, Calif.,
Honor Guard, I have always ensured the time honored
tradition was carried out to the fullest of my ability.
My times with the honor guard were some of the greatest in
my career. One thing is evident, each ceremony hit home in a
different way. The HR ceremonies done throughout the AOR
touch base on the reality of war and the fortitude these
service members, civilians and even foreign nationals
fighting for the same end result have contributed. These
particular individuals have made the ultimate sacrifice,
their own life, so those after them can continue to flourish
freely.
With the honor guard, these funeral ceremonies took in
account the members who survived the preceding wars. These
are the individuals whom allow you and me to walk freely
down the streets. I believe they deserve the best honor and
dignity we can give them. Each funeral was tough in its own
way. Most who receive the flag of the deceased were young
children or young adults. Knowing these persons would be
growing up without the individuals recently laid to rest was
disturbing and tearful at times, but knowing the honor
behind the passing of the flag was an emotional event.
Military bearing definitely plays a big role in these times.
The U.S. flag is flown at all installations at home and
overseas. It is our greatest symbol of patriotism to the
country. We fly it proudly and boastfully. We ensure it
takes the lead as it should and always will. When
remembering the flag, I am reminded for what it stands. Sure
the direct symbolism is 50 states represented by the 50
stars and the red and white horizontal stripes symbolizing
the original 13 colonies that rebelled against the British
and became the first states in the union. It is also a
remembrance of those sacrificed before us, those who put
forth the blood, sweat and tears to make this great country
what it is today. We are a democracy that votes on the
people for the people of this nation. Without those who
served before you and me, these privileges would never
exist. This in my heart is the meaning of "Old Glory."
When encountering a conversation about patriotism with any
U.S. military member, I am surely aware some emotions will
differ here and there. I guarantee we will all have a strong
patriotism to the country, flag, military and civilians
making up this nation. These are some of my ideas, thoughts,
and personal personality into patriotism. | |
By USAF SSgt. Clinton Payne
737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron
Copyright 2009
Reprinted from
Air Force News Service
Comment on this articles |
|
