Small-town America

To the editor:

The Old Settlers’ Day parade was Sept. 26, and as always it was an impressive showing of old cars, motorcycles and floats.

At the front of this procession, and in keeping with a time-honored tradition, stood the Color Guard — comprised of multiple veterans. One veteran served more than 50 years ago in the Korean War and still proudly and willingly escorts his nation’s colors today.

Another veteran has replaced his military uniform with a suit and tie to honor the same colors he served under in Vietnam.

As any Veteran would tell you, it is always an honor to carry our flag whether it be on the battlefield or down Main Street in “small town America.”

While marching through the parade, we couldn’t help but notice that the National Anthem was not played. That song was written about the lives that were given in defense of our nation’s colors and should never be overlooked. This song should be blared from every speaker, heard by every ear, and appreciated by every American.

Our Color Guard should have been afforded the opportunity to present the United States flag in a respectful manner. She should have been raised high, overlooking a town of proud Americans, and be shown the reverence of those that she has served. As a Veteran, when we hear the National Anthem, a feeling washes over us that cannot be explained. We remember times that are rarely spoken and friends whom we have lost.

This simple hymn embodies the very idea under which we have fought and it demands our respect. While we will always proudly carry our Colors, we hope to never again have to do so without the Star Spangled Banner.

To those vibrant patriots who rose at the sight of “Old Glory” passing by, we thank you.

The older generations struggled to rise from their chairs, as some of the younger generations removed their covers. Yet they stood tall, hands over their hearts, proud to pay their respect. It is comforting to know that there are still those who understand the sacrifices that were made for Her and all that she represents.

To those who did not stand, did not remove their covers, and did not place their hands over their hearts, we ask that you take a moment to remember the history of this flag. This is the same flag who has fought in every battle of every war for more than 200 years; the same flag who flies at half-mast in honor of a fallen soldier, and the same flag we wear proudly on our shoulder every day.

If you choose not to honor the flag as a symbol for America and for freedom, then honor it as a symbol for those who fought and died for you and yours. Have no doubt, we are here today because of them.

We are proud of not only this country but this town and the people who make up this community. This is the same “small town America” who has aided wounded soldiers and their families and who always takes care of their own. We have personally experienced this same generosity and support, which carried us through difficult times and still continues to do so.

Our community is full of American heroes who have served in the past and still serve, in their heart, today. Let us not fail to show them that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Chris, Tamra, and Molly Holub