The Bad News
The issue of flag pins and patriotism has once again reared its ugly and hypocritical head, especially within the last week. ABC's use of Nash McCabe's question during Wednesday's debate was only the latest smear attempt. After reading her story, I may a better understanding about why she might feel the way she does, though I still strongly disagree with her point of view and the reasoning behind this view.
The Good News
Yesterday, while reading the local newspaper, I came across a short item that just might help Ms. McCabe (and others) expand their definition of patriotism.
I am always more impressed by someone who quietly goes about doing what is right instead of wearing their heart on the sleeves, or in today's political climate, flag pins on the lapel.
From the Marin IJ
U.S. Army Capt. Ronan Kennedy noticed something interesting when he saw photographs taken by neighbors of his mother's visit with presidential candidate Barack Obama on April 6.
The softspoken Kentfield soldier was e-mailed the newspaper story and recognized the 46-year-old senator was wearing a KIA bracelet, worn in honor of troops who have been killed in action.
Captain Kennedy is on his second tour of duty in Iraq. He is stationed about 30 miles south of Baghdad. The story of his mother waiting several hours for a chance to see Sen Obama and to hopefully have him sign a cap belonging to her son can be found here. He made a point of taking the time to sign the hat and spending several minutes speaking to Ms. Kennedy about her son and to thank her for his service. The thoughtfulness of Sen. Obama is just another small example of the kind of character I want in the next president.
I probably noticed this small item because I was there that day and spoke briefly to Ms. Kennedy while we waited. I saw both her hope and excitement before and after he spoke with her. I don't remember seeing the bracelet, when I shook his hand, but then I was too busy trying not to be a complete idiot.
Maybe the Ms. McCabes in this country might be a little more willing to cut Sen. Obama a little slack on the flag pin thing if they knew about this.
Personally, I doubt any of those who have a knee-jerk reaction to the importance of wearing a flag pin would care whether one wears a bracelet to honor those killed in this horrible war. But that's the point, Sen. Obama doesn't feel the need to loudly proclaim his patriotism by wearing a piece of metal on his lapel where all can see it. His honoring and recognition of the ultimate sacrifice of those serving, is for me, the truest form of patriotism. Obviously, I have no way of knowing how often he wears the bracelet, but I suspect just about every day. At the very least, this quiet personal statement, confirms for me the quality of his character.