Proud to be an American
With July 4th quickly approaching, I am always filled with pride to not only be an American, but to live in the greatest nation on Earth. We all get caught
up in our day-to-day lives and sometimes take for granted all the blessings and freedoms we have been given. The 4th of July is such a special day to
step back and think about what it really means to be an American.
Our nation is filled with such a great history. From George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, to Benjamin Franklin and so many others, these patriots
realized the true meaning of freedom and being a nation separate from all others. In laying out the Constitution, they had a vision and knew what would
make this nation great.
So many heroes have given their lives to ensure that we can have all the freedoms that we have today. Our nation has not only defended our country,
but whenever called upon, have given our lives for other countries to have their freedom. Last month was the 75th anniversary of D Day and it filled me
with a mixture of pride and awe to watch on TV our soldiers storming the beaches of Normandy. So many young men died on that day, but never gave
up. It was the turning point in defeating one of the most evil tyrants in modern day history.
So what does it mean to be a proud American? I’ve come up with several things that I believe in:
• Showing respect for your country and our great flag.
• Standing up for the National Anthem.
• Serving our country in the Armed Forces.
• Telling a soldier thank you for his/her service.
• Showing your Patriotism by flying our great flag.
• Remembering all the men and women who gave their lives for our freedoms.
• Never taking our freedom for granted.
So on July 4th, and every day, let’s all take a moment to be a Proud American.
Happy 4th of July!
40 TYBEE BEACHCOMBER | JUNE JULY
By Margie McLellan