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The Valley Reporter Newsletter

I remember some time ago people lined upon both sides of the street to watch the parade and naturally I was proudly waving in the breeze. When your daddy saw me coming he immediately removed his hat and placed his hand over his heart. Remember? And you, I remember, standing there straight as a soldier. You didn't have a hat but you were giving me the right salute. Remember your little sister? Not to be outdone, she was saluting the same as you with her hand over her heart.

Remember? What happened?

I'm still the same old flag but I don't feel as proud as I used to.

When I come down your street you just stand there with your hands in your pockets.
I may get a small glance but then you look away. I see children running around.
They don't seem to know me. I see a man take off his hat and look around; he didn't see anyone else doing it so he quickly moved on.

Is patriotism a sin? Have you forgotten what I stand for? And where I've been? Well, it won't be long before I'll be coming down your street again: so when you see me, stand up straight, place your hand over your heart. I'll know you remembered. Sometimes forgotten but still a grand old flag.

God Bless You, God Bless Our Troops and God Bless America.

Submitted by Mad River American Legion Post # 75
and Mad River American Legion Auxiliary Unit # 75

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