Patriotism

by Lauren Whitehead - Montgomery High School

When you hear the National Anthem, does a chill run up your spine? It should. When you walk through a Veterans Memorial Cemetery, does a tear roll down you cheek? It should. When you see the American Flag flying, do you think of the sacrifices that were made so that we, as citizens, could have the opportunity to raise the Star Spangled Banner? You should.

“People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.” Growing up, I must have heard my father say this phrase a million times. I believe that is what patriotism means to him as a former Marine. When I was younger, I heard the story of my grandfather running away from home at the age of fourteen to join the Navy and fight in World War IL His love for his country continued throughout his life; just a few years before he died he devoted many hours to the H. E. A. R T. S. Veterans Museum in Huntsville, Texas, and was an active member of V. U. M., which stands for Veterans of Underage Military Service. He had a great sense of pride for his country. I cannot imagine a fourteen year old I have ever known with the courage and conviction that his patriotism gave to him. Webster defines patriotism as a devoted love, support, and defense of one’s country. To me, patriotism is all of those things. It is about the sacrifices people make; young people joining the armed forces without the promise of riches, fame, or anything else, willing to lay down the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

When I read the paper, watch the news, and see the devastation and destruction in many parts of our world today, I am filled with gratitude that I am lucky enough to live in the greatest country in the world. In this time of the global war on terrorism, I am thankful for the patriots in our country, and their willingness to make the sacrifices that are necessary to keep the American people safe. I sleep peaceably in my bed at night only because rough men (and women) stand ready to do violence on my behalf.