Posted on May 11, 2014
CPT Jacob Swartout
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I was raised to stand with my hand over my heart, when the first color/ honor guard holding the flag passes by me. It seems that some people just ignore this tradition and simply just stand and walk around as if nothing important is going on or they sit there in chairs.

I have seen older military veterans in wheelchairs stand up (with or without assistance) and salute with pride when the honor guard passes by them on the street.
Posted in these groups: 0aae9513 Flags and Vexillology
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Responses: 5
1SG Jason Smith
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It is about education. When I was growing up I was taught to revere and respect the flag. I was taught to recite the Pledge of Allegiance every morning at the begining of school. Most schools do not do this anymore because it might offend someones beliefs or sensabilities. I for one pray in public, honor the flag and the country it represents and will make sure in my little corner of the world that my children will do the same.
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CPT Jacob Swartout
CPT Jacob Swartout
9 y
Thanks for sharing. It's disheartening to know that too many people just don't care or are not taught about the traditions and what the flag really means.
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Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS
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I don't want to blame it on society changing, but there have been shifts. Things like the Pledge, and sports games shifting to more televised than live.

The younger generation just doesn't understand national symbols at all, because they weren't raised with them in the same way.
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CPT Jacob Swartout
CPT Jacob Swartout
9 y
Parents should take the time to educate them on what respect means for the flag. It's not just there for no reason. Thanks for sharing.
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SSgt June Worden
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My friends chuckle when I stand at attention as the National Anthem is played/sung on television for sporting events... I don't let it bother me! Of course none are veterans either.
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CMDCM Gene Treants
CMDCM Gene Treants
9 y
Salute please, you have earned the right!
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