SHOHOLA, PA – I have returned! I’m quickly on the mend with the help of my lady and now nurse Kelly Belfast, who insisted my recovery from surgery take place in these Pennsylvania mountains. Today is almost a bittersweet day, given the tumult of current events but trudge on we will.
In the wake of the Vietnam War and shortly before our nation would be celebrating its bicentennial, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Rick Monday would not stand idle while two huckleberries tried to take lighter fluid and a match to it at Wrigley Field. Four years later with patriotism waning amid the Iran hostage crisis and the Russian invasion of Afghanistan goalie Jim Craig was draped in it after he and his young college hockey mates accomplished the improbable by beating the Russians at their own game. Most recently a pair of USWNT “leaders” carelessly dropped it during celebration of winning the World Cup, while one Kelley O’Hara quickly and instinctively scooped it up.
The “it” that I’m speaking of is the American flag. All countries across the globe have their colors and this tapestry is the most iconic symbol of EVERY land—not just ours. The blue field of fifty white stars with its red and white stripes deserves proper respect and reverence no matter what walk of life a resident of our land hails. It matters not whether you are Democrat, Republican, Independent, liberal, conservative, or progressive. It matters not if you are black, white or Latino. It matters not if you are anti-law enforcement or pro-police. Even with our imperfect state of affairs, in the minds of many the USA is still the best damn country in the world no matter who occupies the White House.
Old Glory deserves the love of us all. Volunteer Men and women despite race, creed, religion and sexual preference have served our land in peace and conflict. We owe them the same great respect they showed and continually show our country and the flag they served under.
Today is Flag Day. Let’s forget our differences and shelve discussion just for one day. Let’s give some deep thought to what makes us United. Let’s be Rick Monday, Jim Craig and Kelley O’Hara for but one day. Let’s celebrate our flag and show it it’s proper due. Here is oft forgotten flag etiquette…
During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart.”
“The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water, or merchandise.”
“The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery. It should never be festooned, drawn back, nor up, in folds, but always allowed to fall free.”
Speaking of festooning, leave your comments below and come back tomorrow for my favorite festooner, Junoir Blaber.
