Behind the Badge It was early Monday morning and time to go back to work, but first I had to put out the flag. This was no different than any other day except that it was “Flag Day” which meant a couple extra little flags were also to be put out. I watched as the flag hung limply in the already hot and humid air. She almost looked tired, worn down, ready to give up. It’s no wonder with all she’s been through over the years and especially most recently.

I remember when people would beat a path to our shores to better themselves, to get away from persecution at home, to seek a better life. They came from lands all over the world, looking for an opportunity to become Americans. Despite being proud of their heritage, they would fly American flags now, they would be part of the greatest country on the face of the earth. And then things started to change. Now people still want to come to America, and some still just want to better themselves, while others seek to destroy all that this Flag and Country has stood for over the years, from within. They want to live here and enjoy the benefits, but remain loyal to what they left behind to get here. As I was thinking these thoughts I thought I saw a little ripple as “Old Glory” stirred a little.

I thought about growing up in grade school and beginning each day with a prayer to honor the God we serve, a song, either “My Country tis of thee,” or America The Beautiful” to honor our Country, and we recited the “Pledge of Allegiance” to honor both our country and flag. It didn’t take much time, the prayer was short, the song was short, and the pledge was only about 31 words, but it was a great way to start our day. Can you remember those words? If not, let me help refresh your memory, “I pledge allegiance, to the Flag, of the United States of America, and to the Republic, for which it stands, one Nation, under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice, for all. Quite a little pledge don’t you think? I hope it means something to you if and when you recite it, and it’s not just a bunch of words.

I turned to leave my flagpole and a little breeze came up suddenly and the flag unfurled itself and as I turned to go back in the house it was once again waving proudly. For all the immigrants that have came to this great land and became Americans, for those who were born here, and still love her, for those serving in harm’s way around the world fighting for freedom, and for those who have served, and even paid the ultimate sacrifice, may the Stars and Stripes remain flying high and proudly, forever and ever, Amen.