There is much more to being a patriot and a citizen than reciting the pledge or raising a flag.

I tend to like to read history - recent history, because I find that much more intriguing than just a writer's imagination.

"Pledging one's allegiance to our flag is an example of being a true patriot in word and deed." ~Tom Baker

What do we have for veterans? Government-run health care. I understand that. Congressmen and senators... they get five choices of government-run health care. Why should a congressman and senator get anything more than a regular citizen does? Why are they privileged and the rest of us aren't?

Health insurance should be a given for every citizen.

Patriotism is voluntary. It is a feeling of loyalty and allegiance that is the result of knowledge and belief. A patriot shows their their patriotism through their actions, by their choice.