14 year old has a lesson for all Americans
The title of this piece is sentiments I am used to hearing from our troops – the volunteers who put on a uniform, pick up a weapon, and serve their country in the trouble spots around the world.
In this case, the words are from 14 year old Jeffrey Sahli, who clearly understands what the US flag symbolises; Jeffrey obviously has grasped already what many will never know: there are just some things that are the RIGHT thing to do, no ands, ifs, or buts. I found this story first today on Knee Deep in the Hooah! a blog written by a military mom, that is part of my daily reading. I then found the whole story in the Rocky Mountain News. [ http://www.rockymountainnews.com] The story, about this young man, is an example of what is right with many of America’s young people today.
Boy stands up for Old Glory
By Myung Oak Kim, Rocky Mountain News
Jeffrey Sahli noticed the faded, fraying American flag outside Evergreen Middle School soon after he started eighth grade last year.
“I thought the flag wasn’t being treated with flag etiquette. I thought I needed to do that,” the 14-year-old said. “I wanted to serve my country and I thought, heck, I’ll start right here..” .. [ http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/may/15/student-stands-old-glory/ ]
As I read this story, I was reminded of the disgusting displays by anti-war protestors in Washington at the last Gathering of Eagles. Seems to me the young ‘man’ who literally defecated on the flag – yes, in public and recorded for posterity – could learn a thing or two from Jeff.
Even though Jeff took care of his school’s flag “because it’s right,” and with no thought for personal gain, he did actually receive an unexpected special gift from a troop of US soldiers in Iraq. A flag was flown over Camp Liberty in Iraq, and the US troops sent it to Jeff, to show their appreciation for his dedication. Way to go, Jeff!
And what a great photo from the Rocky Mountain News!
