July 4th, Independence Day, and respect.

Independence Day, America's birthday, a day to celebrate our freedom, a day to show respect for our nation, or is it?

To some, it is only time off, time not to be bothered with chores like attending Independence Day celebrations. Maybe it is time to mow the grass or go to the lake; this is America where the people have the freedom to do so.

Some do make an effort to honor America by attending the parades and fireworks. Some in Peachtree city, in their own way, attempt to honor America by decorating their golf carts with our national emblem. Many do it with respect and pride and properly display the flag.

Others do it with disrespect (maybe even contempt) and use the flag as a seat cover or roof cover. But this is America where people are free to do as they wish.

I have spent 25 years in service to our nation, defending the freedoms of Americans. Yes, even the freedom to not show proper respect to our nation and its flag, to display the flag improperly, to remain seated when the flag marches by, and even to burn it in protest.

But, it still hurts when I see people treat the flag in that manner. I feel a sense of great pride when the national anthem is played and when when the national emblem marches by; if only more people felt the same.

Robert W. Brown
Lt Colonel, USA
Peachtree City

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