Happy Memorial Day...

Happy Memorial Day...

photo by Netti Alnquist

An official start to summer but more than that a time to think about those who are away from their families, children, and all their loved ones because of their commitment to fight for our freedom! 

Glad to be an American always tears at my 

heartstrings and brings tears to my eyes. 

Remembering my dad playing the song practically on repeat any patriotic holiday will always be one of my first memories of Lee Greenwoods song. I can remember sitting in the driveway in the backseat of my parents car waiting for until the song ended. It was always a favorite of his and quickly became a favorite of mine.

After 911 it was impossible to not have images flash through your mind any time you heard the song. I was 21 when the towers fell and the patriotism felt in those weeks and months will be a feeling I will not soon forget. 

Now 10 years later, you could have knocked me over as I overheard Luke humming the melody to this very song while working at his desk. I asked what he was singing and he responded, "Oh just a song we  are singing at graduation. It's called Glad to be an American. Wanna hear it?" I nodded with tears already in my eyes and listed as he sang a verse and the chorus. His sweet, innocent, perfect voice singing, 

"and I'll gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today, because there ain't no doubt I love this land, God Bless the USA.

Today may we all remember the greatest sense of patriotism we've experienced and know that our soldiers, current and fallen lived with incredible patriotism with everyday of their work!

God Bless the USA