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| Red, White, and Blue |
April 26, 2001 |
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YOUNG PATRIOT: Kala Ann Brightwell, left, received a U.S. Flag as a gift from her mother. With Heather Wilson`s help, that flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol.
Memorial Day is around the corner and represents something deeper than the unofficial start of Summer. The "Memorial" in Memorial Day has been ignored by too many of us who are beneficiaries of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Often we do not observe the day as it should be, a day where we actively remember our ancestors, our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors, and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice:
by visiting cemeteries and placing flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.
by visiting memorials.
by flying the US Flag at half-staff until noon.
by flying the `POW/MIA Flag` as well (Section 1082 of the 1998 Defense Authorization Act).
by participating in a "National Moment of Remembrance" at 3 p.m. to pause and think upon the true meaning of the day, and for Taps to be played.
by renewing a pledge to aid the widows, widowers, and orphans of our fallen dead, and to aid the disabled veterans.
A SYMBOL OF SACRIFICE
The flag of the United States has always had a special meaning to me. It is a symbol of our freedom and the unity of our nation. As a veteran, I have very deep feelings for the flag and the people who fought for it.
I strongly believe that we can and should promote respect for our flag. Display yours proudly this Memorial Day, or every day; or teach a child to respect it, display it, and fold it. This Memorial Day, share with young people what that flag means to you and why, so that they can begin to understand that it is more than the threads it is woven of.
U.S. FLAG REQUESTS
If you’d like to purchase a flag which has flown over the Capitol in Washington, D.C., I`d be glad to help you get one. I can arrange to get your flag flown on a specific date, which many people do so they can present the flags as gifts or otherwise honor someone on their special day. |
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