RBC I One of the pillars of VFW’s foundation is the promotion of patriotism. Love of country is high on our agenda, for it is the very basis for military service. What prompts many young Americans to join the armed forces is a genuine desire to defend their nation. Public displays of patriotism are relatively rare these days in the mainstream media. One place, however, that does not hold back is Meeker, Colo.
Officially kicking off on Flag Day and ending on Independence Day, there are occasions for a genuine outpouring of patriotism, no question about it.
“I just think our veins are filled with red, white and blue blood!”
It is refreshing to see such unabashed pride openly expressed at a time when it is too often dismissed by some as old-fashioned. Most veterans I know wholeheartedly agree that America is an exceptional nation. Though this may not be fashionable to say in certain circles, I believe it to be true. Our history and Constitution are evidence enough. America’s Revolution, as it has been called, produced “the first new nation.” Our nation’s ideology consists of a unique combination of individual liberty, equality of opportunity, popular governance and freedom to prosper.
Our national identity was molded by our Puritan roots, political republicanism and democraticism, social mobility, expansive population and rugged frontier spirit. These and other shared values made us the nation we are today.
As critics are quick to point out, of course, we have not achieved perfection. Yet, blemishes and all, America is still a nation that has much to be proud of. Ours is a past that must be passed down to “one generation after the next.”
VFW Post 5843 carries patriotism and our nation’s history into all of our Meeker schools, from preschool to the 12th grade.
So, let’s celebrate America loud and clear, especially on holidays like Flag Day and Independence Day. By doing so we will send a message that America’s history is worthy of recognition and praise. No one knows this better than the nation’s war veterans.
Our VFW Post wants all veterans, war or no war, to come out from wherever you are standing in the parade and fall in behind us to show your “Patriotism to America.”
By Tom Kilduff
VFW Post 5843 Commander
