Just moments ago, I watched the National Anthem sung by Alanis Morriset in Philadelphia Stadium before the start of the 5th game of the World Series.

I wanted to sing along because I feel the pride of being an American each time I hear our national anthem sung. However, the lump in my throat prevented me from singing along and the tear in my eye was the only thing that could have shown anyone the love I have for my adopted country. I have always felt proud of the United States. When I was in elementary school I would play John Philip Souza music on the record player and pretend I was playing a trumpet as I marched in our living room. I have always felt proud that my country came to the aid of any country in the world that was attacked by an aggressor to oppress a weaker nation.

The day I was sworn in as a United States citizen in Pittsburgh, PA in 1979, my pride swelled because now I had achieved the goal of becoming a full-fledged American Citizen, and not just a legal resident. A few months later I enlisted in the United States Navy and served for 4 years, wearing my uniform with pride.

True patriots of our country heed the call when our country goes to war, or when a disaster occurs and people give of themselves to help others. Patriots do not apologize to other nations whom we have protected and liberated from tyranny with the blood of our people without asking for something in return.

I love my country. I will always stand by her in good times and bad. I will never makes excuses or apologize for our intentions to help the world live free. We mourn the deaths of our patriots who have given the ultimate sacrifice not just to keep our country free but to keep other nations any where in the world free.

Shouldn’t the leader of our country be a patriot and also follow the same rules and protect our nation and its citizens? We should ask ourselves why we would elect someone who does not act, as a patriot should? PROUD OF HIS COUNTRY.