I Am an American

Cristobal Lopez's photo.I’m an American. I am moved to tears when I hear songs of patriotism, such as the Star Spangled Banner, or when I see Old Glory pass, for I love the flag and what it stands for. I do not apologize for such, for I grew up with a mother who taught me to love my country, regaling me with stories of American patriots the likes of Nathan Hale, who courageously declared from a British gallows, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country!” I thrilled as a young reader to the stirring words of John Paul Jones from the deck of the Bonhomme Richards, in response to the British Commander’s asking if he had struck his colors: “ I may sink, but I’ll be damned if I strike…I have not yet begun to fight!” Yes, I am an American, and for my love of flag and country I make no excuses.