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| Flag at Fort Matanzas |
Patriotism is my grandfather who enlisted in the Navy when he was only 17 years old and lied about his age. He was supposed to have been shipped to Pearl Harbor but got sick and couldn't go. What would have happened if he did?
Patriotism is my 94 year old friend who fought in the Battle of Bastogne (i.e. Band of Brothers) and was part of the group who visited Hitler's palace. He's amazing and his life is so full. This man is still very sharp, funny, loving and the best storyteller you will ever meet. He is part of America's history.
Patriotism is my dad who served in Vietnam and never, ever talked about it. He was the most peaceful man I know and I'm sure that being in the war caused him a lot of conflict. This is one of the things I wish I would have asked him about when he was still alive. I so admire his loyalty.
Patriotism is my friend from high school who served in the Army and was killed in Afghanistan. He was special forces and was involved in things that we can't imagine. When he died, he left a wife, two children, many brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, and a very proud mom and dad.
Patriotism is my cousin who served as a sniper in the Marine Corps. He enlisted at 18 years old as an insecure boy and after eight years became a kick-ass solider and an amazing man. When he hugs me, it actually hurts because he is so strong. His values about courage, freedom, duty and love of one's country are so very beautiful.
What does patriotism mean to you?
*I'm participating in the 2013 A to Z Challenge. Every day in April (except for Sundays) I will be posting according to a letter of the Alphabet. To read more about my theme, click here.
Even saying the word patriotism makes me swell up to cry. I'm so dorky, but I am a proud citizen of an awesome country -- The United States of America. That's what patriotism means to me.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Teresa. I'm the same way - whenever I meet a veteran or see someone in a uniform, I just want to give him or her a hug.
DeleteI'm proud to have several friends in the military, and even a couple acquaintances who served in Afghanistan/Iraq. But I'm also proud of those people who take the time and effort each year to vote, exercising the rights that other people died to give them. I think patriotism is when we don't take for granted the blessings we have as citizens of our country (whichever country it is)...and then do everything in our power to make that country an even better place to be.
ReplyDeleteI love your view on patriotism. Thank you so much for sharing!
DeleteAwesome post! New follower from A to Z :)
ReplyDeleteMelody
Thanks, Melody! I'm looking forward to reading through your blog this weekend. Have a lovely Friday!
DeleteJaime, this is such a beautiful post. I am an Air Force Brat. My mom retired after 30 years. Our Armed Forces deserve nothing but our respect and admiration for the committment to duty and sacrifice that they make.
ReplyDeleteI found you through Arlee Bird's post on the A to Z Challenge blog. I'll be following you! I love your theme!
Lyre @ Lyre's Musings #atozchallenge
Thank you so much for visiting & following. Thank your mom for serving our country for me!
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