America

Although I never served in our armed forces, just like you, I’m still a proud American patriot red, white, and blue through and through. I’ve never been one to show much emotion, but now, at age 71, at times I can find myself often getting a bit misty-eyed for no apparent reason except realizing I’m actually now mortal. An example of when this occurs is when someone is awarded the Medal of Honor like Capt. Larry L. Taylor who recently was recognized. Of course, growing up in Arlington, we often visited Arlington National Cemetery to witness The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier which always stirred patriotic emotion as does the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” our United States national anthem where I always stand at attention with my right hand placed over my heart. Please allow me a moment to stand on my “stump” to reflect on a subject which also is extremely emotional, but rather than become a bit misty-eyed, tears of anger appear instead. The professional football season is now approaching week #5 and everyone on the sidelines should stand at attention, remove any head covering, and place their right hand over their heart, as should all those in attendance, respecting America during the playing of our national anthem. Anyone who doesn’t, and I’m certain there will be those who won’t, should be held accountable for their un-American activity by their team leadership. Finally, singer Jill Scott, who savagely destroyed the lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner” over the Fourth of July weekend should lose her American citizenship and be incarcerated until she’s booted out of the United States of America never being allowed to return! Congratulations to Capt. Taylor and being awarded the Medal of Honor!