When we
think about America, we as a nation will show our pride. We praise our troops,
we rally our cries for freedom, and we uphold the principles of our
constitution. While many people may not always agree to the terms of what
America is going through, or understand the truest history of our nation, how
often do we show patriotism?
Located
next to Junction City, Kansas, lies a military base that is home to the Army’s
oldest divisions, The First Infantry Division. With Junction City being a
military town, it’s the only place that I know, exemplifies support to our
veterans, loyalty to one person to another, and will pay honor to those who
continue to fight, for both our freedoms, and the community. It’s not just
about the military, but it’s to everyone in the town, including our community
leaders.
Tradition
still continues, and it’s one thing that remains sacred to us all. This new
generation may not understand it, but we have to educate them on it. We must
teach our youth the values of being a leader, comradeship, and the loyalty to
the homeland. As I sat here at Sundown Salute, how many people take the
“celebration” for granted? Why do we have this every year? And what does it all
mean? It’s not just a concert of rock bands for adults, or a carnival for kids…
It’s much more than that. Why is our park called Heritage Park? People may have their opinions, but what is the
value? For our citizens who join the military, why do you join? What values do
you hold?
As an
African-American male, I can say that it may not be easy times for the people
of my race, but I know that being an American is something I am proud of, and
despite what our Country is going through, I still value what it means, and
wouldn’t change my views about the military, this nation, or this community
with a big heart. So I asked you now, how can we define the American way of life?
What is patriotism, and how do you think this is going to be incorporated into “Friends
and Neighbors”?
