Does patriotism still matter?

Does Patriotism still matter?

     Merriam Webster dictionary defines patriotism as a love and devotion to one’s

country.  In the 1600’s, the Pilgrims came to a new land to get away from their king. 

They were trying to find a better life for themselves and their families.  Even then, people

were developing a love of their country. 

     As time moved on and America changed so did the people who lived here.  Our

country is a land of immigrants who came here seeking a new life.  From this desire for a

better life, love of country develops.  People are proud of their country.  We live in the

greatest country in the world.  Sure, we have problems here, but we have a good

government, we can live where we want to, and we can make a good life for ourselves.

     Patriotism still matters today and in my family we have a great deal of patriotism.  My

Grandfather Accatatta served in World War II in the U.S. Navy and my Pop Corrigan

served in the Korean War in the U.S. Army.  They both had a lot of patriotism and

always told me that I was lucky to live in the United States of America.  Now, my

brother, Mike, will be in the U.S. Army.  He will be stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, as a

fire support specialist.  His job will be to fire missiles.  I know that he is probably scared

and I am, too.  He knows what the risks are but he is so devoted to his country that he is

willing to risk his life.  If you want my opinion, it takes someone very special to want to

do this.

     We all should love our country and be devoted.  There are many ways we can show

this:  voting, flying the flag, saying the Pledge of Allegiance, and singing the National

Anthem.  Patriotism may not always be cool, but where would we all be if we didn’t have

patriotism?