Our Pride and Joy

As most of you who read my blog know, my oldest son, Nicholas, is a member of the United States Air Force. During a deployment in 2003, he and his crew flew this flag from their aircraft and Nick subsequently presented it to Randey and me with a certificate. The certificate says this:

The accompanying American Flag was proudly flown aboard MC-130E Combat Talon I during Operation Enduring Freedom on 7 June 2003, in support of US Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan. Commitment

I am the American Flag. I have flown over every conflict since my inception into this world. I have seen the grassy fields of Gettysburg, the waters in the Pacific, the sands of Iraq, the skies over Yugoslavia , and the mountains of Afghanistan. The mere site of me invokes tears of joy, pride, and dedication in those who believe in what I stand for. I also provoke fear into the heart of nations of those who oppose me. I know no gender or race and accept all who will accept me. I am no God, but hold a bond over men and women who serve under me that is equal. I have no voice, but people listen. I cover a nation with hope and vision, and sadly blanket those who have given us the same. Of all the nations and all the flags, none makes its presence known as I. I am a leader among leaders. I encompass the lives of friends and family, brothers and sisters, the living and the dead. I will continue to give hope to those who do not understand, and meaning to those who do. In return for all I can give, I ask for but one thing. This I cannot tell you, it is something that only you will come to know. I do ask that you be patient for I am young, and stern for I am old. Proudly display me for all the world to see, and look to me, and I will show you the past, the present and the future. I am committed to you, the children of my country. I am the American Flag.

In memory of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

I finally got this wonderful flag and certificate framed in a shadow box. It will be proudly displayed in our living room.

To Nick:

Thanks, baby. Randey and I both love and appreciate the gift of this flag. It means the world to us. Sorry it took so long to get it displayed.