Whenever I see our flag flying so majestically in the sky, I feel a deep connection to all it stands for. When it is at half-staff, I feel sorrow for all who have lost their lives in service to our country.
When I think back in my memories, I remember the day in kindergarten when our teacher, Miss Willard, played The Star-Spangled Banner on the piano and told us that when we heard that music, we should always stand up in respect for all who have helped make our country free.
One day a few months later, Miss Willard played the song again. I remembered her words about standing up. I looked around me—no one was standing. Did I have the courage to stand all by myself? With shaking knees, I stood up. Our teacher continued playing. She told the class she was proud of me for remembering to show respect when that music was played. The next time she played it, everyone stood up without being told.
When I see the flag today and hear The Star-Spangled Banner, I’m taken back to those childhood days, and the memory of those heroes who have died and all who have served for the freedom I know today. May God bless all those who have heroically served.
—Bernadette R. Gentry