Our National Anthem

How many times over the past Memorial Day weekend did we hear our national anthem? And sadly, how often did we see people fidgeting, clearly unhappy at having to “waste their time” being delayed to get where they wanted to be or do what they wanted to do.

Sad, isn’t it?

Now, we have individuals or groups actually protesting at the playing of the anthem. Do they not understand what it stands for? The lives lost in protecting our right to sing or play it? Have they become so mind-numbed or brainwashed that they cannot see the freedoms and rights we have? The very things the anthem stands for?

We even have those who demand we stop playing our national anthem at the start of events – especially sporting events. Is it okay for every other nation in the world to play theirs but not for us to play ours?

I will refrain from making personal observations on what I think those protestors should do or where they should go.

A bit of a diversion.

https://youtu.be/TRUjr8EVgBg

I also listened to some great versions of America the Beautiful. In my own not-so-humble opinion, THAT should be our national anthem! Carefully listen to the words and tell me this isn’t a love song to America. It’s a whole lot easier to sing and the words are the kind that stay in one’s heart. Sadly, the part of “from sea to shining sea with brotherhood” no longer seems to be true.

Kinda like our national symbol being the Bald Eagle when Ben Franklin thought it should be the turkey.

Always love comments. Until next time.

Thoughts on Memorial Day

Throughout my twenty-plus years in the US Army and since, I have had the privilege of serving with and knowing a lot of men and women in uniform who served from Europe and the Pacific during WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan.

US Communications Zone, Europe [France]

I served during the time when many in uniform were there against their will at the behest of the Selective Service System. The vast majority of them served with honor and did their best to live up to their oath of office. Some of the bravest were Conscientious Objectors who worked and accepted the role of volunteering to participate in medical research. They knew and understood that their actions would not only help military personnel but civilians all over the world. Medical advances we take for granted today came through the participation of those men. Most amazingly, they served at the Presidio of San Francisco during the height of the Anti-War Movement and not one single one of them dishonored their oath or uniform to participate.

 Sixth United States Army

I've served with commissioned and warrant officers of all grades and types. Some came from Reserve Officer Training Corps programs, others through Officer Candidate School and many were "Ring Knockers," graduates of the US Army Military Academy. I know more than a few crusty old Warrant Officers who'd come up through the ranks and others fresh out of chopper school.

3rd Infantry Division

The vast majority of them were professional, patriotic individuals who proudly wore their uniforms. There were, of course, a few who thought more of themselves and their careers than those they served with or had serving under them. They were certainly the minority.

I am proud to have worn the uniform. I feel honored to have served with and under such good men and women. 

Military District of Washington

So, I ask all who read this to do what I do whenever I meet a servicemember, simply say "Thank you." You have no idea just what that means to them.

Thank you!
 [some of the shoulder patches I wore]