Maybe it's time we start being patriotic again

How many of you have an American flag in front of your house? 

Maybe you have a flag on your truck or a sticker on your car. Have you ever considered the cost of that small freedom? Maybe you have thought about it. 

Some of you have served. Some have sent a child to boot camp. Others have waited at home for a sibling, parent or spouse to return. Many of you grew up hearing stories from grandparents or relatives who served with honor. 

We’ve gone from 70% of the American population being “extremely proud” to be an American following 9/11, to kids on college campuses burning American flags. There’s crowds in the streets chanting “Death to America,” while a mom sends her son off to boot camp. 

The dichotomy is shocking. When did we stop getting teary-eyed when we heard the Star Spangled Banner? When did we stop feeling the pride in our chest when we saw Old Glory flying? When did we stop thanking veterans when we see them in the grocery store, Ace or anywhere else? 

When did it become too political to be patriotic? And perhaps most devastating of all is what this disconnect has cost our veterans.

Every day in this country, those who once wore the uniform take their own lives—often feeling unseen, unheard and unappreciated. 

We used to thank them in the checkout line. We used to mean it. 

Maybe it’s time we start again. Maybe it's time we start being patriotic again.

Alani Holcombe, Libby