Fly Your Flag on New Year's Day – January 1, 2009

The year 2008 is almost behind us and, boy, what a year it has been. We endured the longest presidential campaign in recent history, witnessed a historic election and experienced an economic meltdown not seen since the great depression. Thankfully, we have made it another year without a terrorist attack.

I believe many, if not most, Americans have become complacent since 9/11 and feel that the attacks were just a random one-time event. Little do many know that, as of a year ago, the United States has thwarted 19 terrorist attacks on our homeland since 9/11. This number is derived from publicly available records only. No telling how many attacks were stopped that remain classified. Can you imagine what life would be like today if one or two of those attacks succeeded?

Regardless of how you feel about the outgoing Bush administration, the one thing you must give them credit for is keeping our homeland safe for the last seven years. I pray that an Obama Administration will have the same success. We have seen some unprecedented actions taken by our government to “save” our economy and some specific industries, which has created a great debate among the ideologues; however, we all agree that it is the federal government's duty to protect the citizens of the United States. Where we disagree, is how we go about providing that protection. Let's just hope that, in the zeal to rid the country of the vestiges of the Bush Administration, our new administration does not take it's eye off the ball on the fight against terrorism and the protection of it's citizen.

As we usher in the new year, please remember to fly your flag on New Year's Day in support of this great Nation.

The Military Minute: Dramatic Turnaround in Iraq

Sadr City was considered one of the most desperate and dangerous parts of Iraq. And that's when Saddam Hussein was in power. Years of neglect by the Iraqi dictator created a haven for militias and terrorist organizations that operated unfettered. The situation was exacerbated after the start of the war and insurgents used it as a home operating base.

U.S. Army engineers have turned their attention to sanitation and reconstruction of essential services in Sadr City. The belief is that if we win Sadr City, we'll win Baghdad and we'll win Iraq. Such action has created a dramatic turnaround and it's having a ripple effect across the country. Once neutral or anti-coalition residents saw the improvements in their city, they couldn't think anything other than it was good for their country. Many started informing coalition forces of the location of insurgents and weapons caches. People are now walking the streets, businesses are open and security is better than it ever has been. Americans and Iraqis are shaking their heads in disbelief at all of the positive changes.

While our Army engineers are in Iraq to provide force protection by disabling IEDs before they kill or injure anyone, they are also there to rebuild roads, schools and clinics as well as to improve water, wastewater and sewage. Sadr City residents have taken notice and it's increasing pride in their community, improving their economy and reducing violence.

This is another example of good news out of Iraq that does not make it onto the mainstream media's airwaves. We normally hear about what our combat troops are doing, how they killed others or have been killed. Yet, it's our troops that are directly supporting nonlethal operations that have created the turnaround in Sadr City and the road map for success in Iraq. We salute these troops and thank them for their service.

Source: U.S. Department of Defense

Product Review: United States Marine Corps Flag

If you ask a Marine, Semper Fidelis is more than a motto, it's a way of life. Meaning “always faithful” in Latin, it became the motto for the Marine Corps in 1883. It guides Marines to remain faithful to the mission at hand, to each other, to the corps and country, no matter what.

Our Marines Corps flag is made of 100% Perma-Nyl nylon. Dyed with brilliant colors, this flag is finished with heading and grommets for outdoor display. Available in sizes 2'x3', 3'x5' and 4'x6'. An indoor Crown flag with gold fringe is also available in sizes 3'x5' and 4'x6'. These flags are 100% made in the U.S.A.

Remember, there is no such thing as an ex-Marine. Get your U.S. Marine Corps flag today and support the brotherhood.

A Little Christmas Cheer

Thousands of servicemen and women spent Christmas away from their families. This is the sixth year in a row that our troops have been deployed during the holiday season. However, for a couple of thousand of them, their Christmas was a little brighter than it would have been. A group of generous individuals and organizations sent stockings full of snacks, games, socks and other items to Marines and sailors deployed with the Regimental Combat Team 5.

Some service members ask, “Why? What makes the American people give to the troops that are deployed?” A mother whose son served as a Marine with the 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment summed it up the best by answering, “All I hope for is it brings them a smile and also reassures them that our Nation will never forget them. We stand behind them and what they do daily on behalf of our country. They deserve the best.”

Now, that is certainly spreading some Christmas cheer.

To read the entire article, click the following link: Stockings for Deployed Marines Presented with Care

Fly Your Flag On Christmas Day – December 25, 2008

Tomorrow is Christmas and many of you are getting ready for the big day. There are presents to wrap (and still buy for you late shoppers), desserts to make and preparations for a big feast. It is truly a wonderful time of the year. Although the news has reported that a lot of us are staying put this Christmas, many are still traveling to a loved one's house for the holidays. For those who are, we hope that your travels are safe and this post really doesn't apply to you.

For those who choose to stay home, don't forget to fly your flag on Christmas Day. You may be wondering, “Why should we fly our fly on Christmas? It is not a patriotic holiday.” Well, it's true that Christmas is not a patriotic holiday per se, but according to Section 6(d) of Title 4 of the United States Code, “the flag should be displayed on all days, especially on... Christmas Day.” There are two exceptions to flying the flag to remember. First, do not fly your flag in inclement weather unless the flag is an all weather flag. Second, do not fly your flag during the hours of darkness unless it is properly illuminated.

So, on the day we celebrate the birth of Christ, let's honor our country by displaying our most revered symbol – the United States flag.

Everyone at Shining Star Flags & Bandanas wishes you and your family a very Merry Christmas.

The Military Minute: Violence is Down Significantly in Iraq, But Who Would Know It?

A U.S. military official announced the other day that the number of daily attacks in Iraq have dropped nearly 95% since last year. A year ago, Iraq suffered approximately 180 attacks per day. Today, that number is down to about 10. Has this even been reported in the news? The mainstream media surely doesn't care to report this information, most likely because it thrives on negative news. But God forbid that any positive stories coming out of Iraq are credited to the Bush Administration as doing something right or help sway public opinion on the prosecution of the war. You see, the mainstream media has an agenda, which is not to fairly and objectively report the news. This agenda is to accentuate the bad in hopes that the public believes the war is going horribly, that our government callously and purposely desires to see our servicemen and women, not to mention innocent Iraqis, killed, and frankly to make a Republican administration look bad. I often wonder what the coverage would be like if President Clinton were still President or, after seeing how the media acted during the most recent election, if Barack Obama was President, assuming all other things remained the same.

We live in a time where news is essentially live feed, 24/7, around the world. It's largely unfiltered except by the mainstream media. When there's an agenda behind reporting the news, it can be distorted. This applies equally to negative news that is put in a positive light. This is usually called propaganda. For instance, during World War II, there were many battles that the United States and the allies lost and where thousands of men died sometimes due to mistakes made by inexperienced officers or split-second decisions made on the battlefield that turned out to be disastrous. However, the American public did not hear about it on the radio in real time. In fact, weeks would go by before stories were reported in the newspapers. Millions of Americans packed movie theaters to see newsreels about the war, many of which were censored by the U.S. military and produced to show the U.S. and it's allies in a positive light. Was this propaganda? I am sure some of it was, but did it help us win the war? I would say resoundingly, “Yes!”

Here's a chart which reflects the publics' opinion of the war and President Roosevelt's handling of the war from 1941 through 1945.

Click on image to view larger size

Despite the many setbacks and mistakes made by the United States, both militarily and politically, during the war, President Roosevelt's approval rating on his handling of the war never dropped below the high 60s. Why was this? My opinion is that the American people supported President Roosevelt and the war because there wasn't a relentless daily drubbing of negative news and attacks by the media. Likewise, Hollywood production companies patriotically worked with our government to produce newsreels that accurately portrayed the battles we fought, yet put a positive spin on them so as to leave the viewer feeling that we, as a country, were persevering and going to win the war. This is opposed to today's mainstream media reports that leave viewers feeling that we are failing, we can't win the war and that nothing we do is right. Does it surprise anyone why the war and President Bush's war approval ratings are so low?

Look, it's clear that we have made mistakes in the prosecution of the Iraq war. Tell me a war where no mistakes are ever made. However, we, as Americans, need to stop listening to the pundits and the mainstream media's negative dribble and educate ourselves as to what we are really doing abroad. It might surprise you.

Product Review – Koralex II U.S. Flag

Our United States flags are offered in a variety of fabric materials, styles and sizes – all with the assurance of long-lasting durability and beauty. These flag products are manufactured to exacting specifications, under strict quality control. The fabrics are designed and constructed to be durable in the face of the sun, cold and rain. The material is lightweight in construction to wave freely, and high in tensile strength to withstand wind and harsh weather conditions.

Our Koralex II brand U.S. flag has the most improved flag fabric technology. Made with 100% 2x2 ply spun polyester, this flag is very durable and strong and has excellent fly-ability. This polyester flag is ideal for extreme weather conditions without excess weight. With a rich look and feel, this flag will look perfect flying outside your home or business.

We have 15 different sizes to meet your needs – everything from 2.5'x4' to 30'x60'. Prices start at $32.95 and depend on the size of flag chosen. All Koralex II U.S. flags come with a one year colorfast guarantee*.

100% made in the U.S.A. Click Koralex II U.S. Flags for more information.

*This guarantee is limited to replacement of the flag only. No other damages, incidental or otherwise, are covered. No purchase price refunds or shipping costs are covered. Colorfast refers to colors retaining their base colors. Some color lightening, due to the exposure of the sun, is natural, and will not affect the usability of the flag and therefore is not covered under this guarantee. Fabric tears and fraying, as a result of high winds and other climatic conditions, as well as torn flags and normal wear, are not covered by this guarantee.

New Design and Format for Old Glory Blog

As you can see, the Old Glory Blog has a completely new design. Our desire is to make it simple and more readable. We feel that the background colors and wide screen format help do just that.

Up to now, the topics of our posts have been pretty much whatever has come to mind. Starting Monday, December 22nd, we are launching a new format for this Blog in order to provide some structure and cohesiveness.

Here's our new format of weekly topic categories:

Monday – Product Reviews, Discounts & Other Specials

We will review and provide information on a product that Shining Star Flags & Bandanas sells, discounts that are currently offered and information on any other specials that may be available.

Tuesday – The Military Minute

Unfortunately, a very large majority of the news relating to our military and its mission on the mainstream media is negative. We will attempt to bring good news home from the military front, whether it's success on the battlefield, human interest stories or the good deeds the military is doing for local populations.

Wednesday – NewsFront

We will comment on or provide an opinion piece on various issues of the day from world news, national news, the economy or politics.

Thursday – T.O.P. G.U.N.

Every Thursday we'll have a post that will do one or more of the following:

T – Thank our troops for their service and sacrifices
O – Offer our time by volunteering to help servicemen and women in need
P – Provide assistance in the form of donations

G – Give back to those who give everything
U – Understand what servicemen and women and their families are going through
N – Non-profit organizations will be identified to assist all of those who would like to help

Friday – Free For All Friday

We will post a message on any topic that we like and feel is relevant to our Blog, our business or our mission of honoring our flag and country.

We have also added Pentagon TV to our Blog. According to its website, the Pentagon Channel broadcasts military news and information for the 2.6 million members of the U.S. Armed Forces through programming including:

• Department of Defense news briefings
• Military news
• Interviews with top Defense officials
• Short stories about the work of our military

In addition to enhancing Department of Defense communications with the 1.4 million active duty service members, the Pentagon Channel will provide the 1.2 million members of the National Guard and Reserve and the 650,000 civilian employees of the Department of Defense more timely access to military information and news.

You are able to “mute” the audio if the background noise bothers you while you read our posts.

If you have any comments on the design of this Blog or the proposed format, we'd love to hear from you. What we do is not written in stone, so if our readers like or don't like something, let us know.

What is Shining Star Flags & Bandanas?

Shining Star Flags & Bandanas is a family owned and operated business that exists due to our love, admiration and respect for the U.S. flag, the United States itself and the world's best all-volunteer professional military. A day doesn't go by without honoring our country by displaying the flag outside our home and business and thinking about the men and women who serve this country. Our brother-in-law was involved in the initial invasion of Iraq and our nephew is currently deployed there. To date, we have been very blessed that none of our loved ones have been injured or killed in combat and we pray for their safety constantly.

As a dealer of two of the oldest and largest flag manufacturers in the United States, Shining Star Flags & Bandanas sells a full line of flags that are 100% made in the U.S.A. and the epitome of superbly high quality manufacturing. We do not, and will not ever, sell any flags or banners that are imported from other countries. As a result of this business decision, our prices are higher than some other competitors who choose to sell foreign-made flags. The benefit to customers by purchasing from us is twofold: our flags will last longer ultimately saving money in the long run and the money paid for such flag will stay in the United States and benefit only American workers.

Here's a brief overview of what we sell:

U.S. Flags – we offer three different fabrics (2-ply polyester, nylon and cotton) and over 19 different sizes (from 12”x18” to 30'x60' depending on the type of flag chosen).

Military Flags – we have every branch of the U.S. military (with and without gold fringe), including specific branch retired flags, POW/MIA flags, a service star flag, flags that commemorate World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, and flags that honor those that have died in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. All of these flags are made of 100% nylon and, depending on the flag chosen, come in sizes ranging from 2'x3 to 5'x8'.

State Flags – we sell flags for all 50 states in your choice of 2-ply polyester or nylon fabric. Our polyester state flags come in sizes of 3'x5' to 5'x8' and, depending on the flag chosen, our nylon flags come in sizes ranging from 2'x3' to 12'x18'.

World Flags – we have 205 different flags representing nations around the world, including every member of the United Nations. All of these flags are made of 100% nylon and, depending on the flag chosen, come in sizes ranging from 2'x3 to 5'x8'.

Religious Flags – we carry the Christian, Episcopal, Israel and Papal flags in sizes ranging from 2'x3' to 6'x10' for both indoor and outdoor use. All of these flags are made with 100% nylon.

Historical/Southern Heritage Flags – we offer almost every historical flag of the United States as well as the Confederacy, which is perfect for those history buffs. All of these flags are 3'x5' in size and made of 100% nylon.

Garden Flags – for those who love to adorn their lawn with patriotic symbols, we sell 12”x18” garden flags consisting of the U.S. flag, each branch of the military and seasonal patriotic designs. We also carry the brand new “Yes We Can” garden flag to allow those who would like to celebrate Barack Obama's victory and historic presidency to do so. Garden flag holders are available.

Patriotic Items – we carry various patriotic flags, banners, fans and streamers and will be adding new items over time.

Flagpoles – we have residential and commercial fiberglass and aluminum flagpoles ranging in sizes from 20' to 80'.

Bandanas – our second line of products consist of 22”x22” bandanas that come in a wide array of styles and designs. We have patriotic, military, camouflage, NASCAR, southern heritage, biker and paisley bandanas and expect to add more styles in the future. Our bandanas are only $1.95 a piece, except the NASCAR bandanas which sell for $3.95 a piece, making us one of the most competitively priced bandana retailers online. We offer volume discounts.

All of our bandanas are made in the U.S.A. except our biker and paisley styles. We purchase our biker and paisley bandanas from a U.S. manufacturer, which still is a benefit to America, but our manufacturer has made a decision to outsource the manufacturing of those bandanas to a foreign company. While it's not the ideal situation, we had to make a business decision to either offer these very popular styles or reduce the number of choices given to our customers. We chose the former, at least for now, and are looking into ways to be able to offer 100% of our products as U.S. made.

This post describes only a portion of what Shining Star Flags & Bandanas sells. We invite each and every one of you to visit our website and see for yourself the extensive line of products available to you across the United States as well as APO/FPO box worldwide.

We thank all of you who have already patronized our store. It is our commitment to provide the best customer service in the industry and we hope that you'll visit us again.

When Was the First Time You Were Really Proud of America?

During the election, Michelle Obama took some heat for saying “For the first time in my adult lifetime, I'm really proud of my country, and not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change.” I found that people's take on this comment largely depended on which side of the aisle they stood politically. But it got me thinking. When was the first time I was really proud of America? There have been many times that I have been proud of this country in my adult lifetime, but when was the first time in my life?

I was a youngster back in the 1970s and frankly I don't really remember a time of being proud. This could be due to the fact that I was very young, life was relatively carefree (at least for me) and my goal was to play and watch Sesame Street. However, it could also be due to the fact that America was stuck in Vietnam, our President resigned in scandal amid calls for impeachment, inflation and interest rates were at all time highs and Iranian militants held approximately 70 Americans hostage. The 1970s wasn't a great decade for the United States of America. I remember watching on television our troops coming home from Vietnam in defeat (at least politically), President Nixon's resignation speech and the nightly news updates on the hostage crisis. None of this caused me to exude any pride.

However, 53 days into the new decade changed everything for me. On February 22, 1980, twenty-five college hockey players and long-shot NHL aspirants took on the vaunted Soviet Union in the Olympic hockey semi-finals. The Soviet Union was made up of seven players from the 1976 Olympic team and one player from three other Olympiads. They had dominated the Olympics since 1964 and the United States was not expected to win. How could they with these amateurs and especially after the 10-3 thumping by the Soviets in the exhibition round? I remember nervously watching the game while sitting on the floor a mere four feet from our 20” console television. There were hundreds of American flags in the crowd. Not the small stick flag kind, but large American flags being waved about. Loud sustained chants of “USA, USA” echoed throughout the arena sending chills up my arm and it still does so today when I think about it. When Mike Eruzione scored the go ahead goal in the third period, I jumped up and down and ran around giving high-fives to everyone in my family. It was then that everyone thought that we could actually beat the Soviets. The remaining seconds of the game crescendoed the complete euphoria and adulation we all experienced. The Iranian hostage crises was still going on and interest rates and inflation were still high, but it was like we turned a corner, we had a more hopeful future. I was really proud of America that day. All of America was proud. It's a day I'll never forget and it helped shaped my love and admiration for this country.

When were you first proud of your country?

Watch this video to relive the remaining 15 seconds of this true “Miracle on Ice.”

Soldiers In Need – Part 3

This is the last part of a 3 part posting designed to highlight the needs of our servicemen and women. There are so many in need that I cannot possibly list them all here or even ensure that the ones who are in the most dire situations are included. Nevertheless, helping any soldier and their family is a noble cause.

Rather than profile one specific case, I have decided to provide a list of some of the needs that the Texas Chapter of Operation Homefront has:

• After an Army E6 solider was injured in Iraq he was brought to BAMC for medical treatment. His wife left her job and came from out of town to be by his bed side. The Fisher House was full so she was forced to pay out of pocket to have a place to stay. After two months of paying out of pocket and not having a second income they fell behind on their bills.
• Moving assistance to help an Army battered spouse and her 2 children flee an abusive situation in El Paso, TX.
• Car repair for an El Paso Army Family - Six children, husband is currently deployed. This is their only vehicle.
• Home Repair for a deployed service member in Harlingen, TX, which was hit by a storm leaving several rooms unlivable.
• 25 year old female Air Force service member E3 lives in Houston, TX. She was discharged from the military in August 2003. Service member has filed an appeal with the VA in February 2008 for PTSD. She has been unemployable since January 2008 because of mental issues she is being treated for. Her boyfriend has been providing for her since February 2008 but he recently broke his hand, was hospitalized for 17 days and missed work because of it.
• Divorced Army E6 service member resides in Killeen, TX. He was wounded in Iraq April 2003 of which he continues to receive medical treatment. After serving for 15 years the service member separated from the military in October 2003. In 2005 he was notified of a child he knew nothing of. After two years of court battles he now has full time custody of his daughter. Service member has had to sell furniture and vehicles to make ends meet. Operation Homefront recognizes his financial situation is in transition because he has an open appeal with the VA.

If you would like to help any of these families, please consider donating to:

Operation Homefront Texas
17305 IH 35 North, Suite 105
Schertz, Texas 78154

If you would like to see if there is anyone in need in or near your home state, click on Local Chapters, click the star that represents a Chapter closest to you and then click on the “Needs” link on the left hand side. I want to thank everyone for their kind donations. You have really helped those that have given so much to us.

Soldiers In Need – Part 2

Yesterday I posted a heartbreaking story of a soldier and his family who lost everything in a fire. Soon they will run out of money and will have nothing, absolutely nothing! If this is not a story that makes you break open your wallet or look around and figure out what you can give as an in-kind donation, I don't know what does.

Today's story is not as severe but one that still has serious financial consequences for the military family involved.

Operation Homefront recently received an application from the spouse of an Indiana National Guard member who is deployed to Iraq for repairs to their only vehicle. This vehicle is her only means of transportation to her new job. An estimate was sent to Operation Homefront for the amount of the repairs; however, when the mechanic began working on the car he discovered that the damage was far more extensive than previously thought. It was determined that the repairs to the vehicle would be far more than the value of the vehicle. Without this vehicle she is in jeopardy of losing her new job and creating a further financial burden on the family. Operation Homefront is seeking a donated vehicle that is family ready and near the Indiana area. If you would like to help, please contact Vicki Sarracino at vicki@operationhomefront.net. Please refer to case number NL080189. Source: Spouse of Indiana National Guard Member in Need of Donated Automobile

Can you imagine the stress involved in trying to find a way to get to your job on top of worrying about the safety of your soldier husband? Thank God the security situation has improved in Iraq. But with more troops to be deployed to Afghanistan in the near future, the stress is not going away any time soon.

If you are in the Indiana area and have a good running vehicle you can donate, you will be a significant help to this military family this Christmas season and beyond.

I will profile one more story (at least for now) in a future post, but know that the needs of our military families will not cease.

Soldiers In Need – Part 1

Yesterday, I posted information on Operation Homefront, which is an organization that provides assistance to soldiers and their families in need. This blog post is part 1 of 3 posts to highlight the real needs that these real people have. They have sacrificed so much to defend our freedoms and to keep us all safe. Now they need our help.

On November 22, 2008, a wounded soldier and his family lost their home to a fire. The soldier, along with his wife and young daughter, were away from home when the fire started. Although the fire department responded quickly, it was a total loss. The soldier and his family lost clothing, furniture and all personal items due to the devastating fire and were forced to relocate to a hotel, until they can find a permanent home to rent. The family's savings have been depleted because of the cost of hotel, food and living essentials. The family did not have insurance. They cannot afford to remain in the hotel much longer and have been diligently seeking a place to live. The soldier and his family are in need of furniture, clothing, household items and assistance with the security deposits associated with their new residence. Source: Oklahoma Soldier in Need

For more information on how you can help this soldier and his family, please contact Gina Griffiths at 866-316-9170 or oklahoma@operationhomefront.net. Please refer to case number OK080030. If you would like to send a Visa gift card to this family, mail it to:

Operation Homefront
Case No. OK080030
P.O. Box 1933
Lawton, OK 73502

and it will be forwarded, along with other items collected, to this family. Thank you for helping our military families.

Tis the Season to Give a Helping Hand

The holiday season is nearly upon us and it's a time for joy and a time for cheer... well, at least it's supposed to be. With the economic malaise or, as some feel, recession we're in, many are cutting back on gift giving this Christmas. However, while cutting back on giving 46” LCD TVs, Blue Ray players and the latest PS3 video games to our loved ones might be an intelligent decision, we should not forget during this time of giving the least of our brothers. There are hundreds, make that thousands, of soldiers and families who are suffering. Many have excessive medical bills due to injuries suffered in combat and others are financially strapped due to a lack of transportation and, in some cases, a lack of shelter. This is suffering that would occur even if our economy was booming.

What can we do about it? Operation Homefront, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, provides emergency assistance and morale to our troops, the families they leave behind, and the wounded warriors when they return home. Started after September 11th, Operation Homefront has over 4,500 volunteers in 30 chapters nationwide providing assistance to over 45,000 military families in need.

Neither I, nor Shining Star Flags & Bandanas, is affiliated with this organization; however, we believe it's an excellent organization if you have the desire to help our soldiers and their families in need. Here's a short video about Operation Homefront:

According to its website, Operation Homefront provides aid to families struggling not only with emergencies, but also with the problems of everyday life. Existing programs include:

• Emergency Aid — Provides food, baby care items, vehicle donation and repair.
• Computer Program — Allows children and spouses to stay in touch with their loved ones.
• Financial Assistance Program — Addresses crises such as illness, homelessness and death.
• Furniture Program — Donates household and baby furniture; working-order appliances.
• Moving — Provides physical labor for families when a service member is deployed.
• Social Outreach — Offers Adopt-a-family opportunities, Thanksgiving/holiday baskets, back-to-school supplies.
• Community — Rebuilds the challenged social network of the military community by bringing it to our online magazine where it is convenient to everyone, no matter the time or location.

No matter what our circumstances in life are we all should be thankful for what we have and remember those less fortunate than us. Let us give to those who need it the most this Christmas season. There are many in need, but we at Shining Star Flags & Bandanas ask that you consider giving to our soldiers and their families. While there are many worthwhile organizations to choose from, Operation Homefront is a great way to do that. Over the next couple of days, I will profile some families in need and provide information on how you can help. Until then, remember it's a time for joy and a time for cheer.

Obama's Birth Certificate: A Constitutional Issue or Just Another Desperate Attack?

When I started this Blog I had no intention of interjecting politics (although some would claim that patriotic musings are political in themselves) and that is still my intent. However, after reading David Horowitz's opinion piece in TownHall.com entitled Obama Derangement Syndrome: Conservatives Need to Shut Up About the Birth Certificate, I felt the need to respond. As someone who loves this country, my love doesn't exist just because America exists, it arises out of a deep affection from the very document that created our Republic: The U.S. Constitution. This profound document underpins all that is great about this country. With that, I'll explain what I believe is going on here.

I have only followed the Obama birth certificate issue peripherally and have not independently verified any facts or allegations. However, it is my understanding that there are a number of people who have filed suit in Federal Court to block the inauguration of Barack Obama as President of the United States on the basis that he is not a natural born U.S. citizen. Allegedly, Mr. Obama's mother gave birth in Mombasa, Kenya and she and his father immediately flew to Hawaii to register the birth. Mr. Obama's mother was a U.S. citizen and his father was not. So, what's the issue? Well, apparently, back in 1961 in order for a child born to a U.S. citizen and an alien to be a natural born citizen of the United States, the U.S. citizen parent must have been a citizen who had lived in the U.S. for at least five years after their 14th birthday. Mr. Obama's mother was 17 years old at the time of his birth, which doesn't meet the five year requirement. As a result, the plaintiffs allege that Mr. Obama is not a natural born citizen of the United States and, thus, cannot serve as President of the United States.

Why does this matter? Article II, Section I of the U.S. Constitution states “No person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President;....”

Folks, this very well may just be a desperate attack from a fringe element of the right wing who is looking to get back at the Democrats for their sore loser attempt to declare George W. Bush's election in 2000 as illegitimate; however, this is a Constitutional issue that must not be ignored. It's also an issue that could easily and quickly go away if Mr. Obama and his attorneys wanted it to. Filing motions to dismiss and refusing to release a certified copy of his Hawaiian birth certificate is fueling the fire of the conspiracy theorists' claims. This is a no brainer. If Mr. Obama and his attorneys know without a shadow of doubt that he is a citizen, then let the court case proceed and present definitive evidence to the court of the same. Then file a motion for summary judgment. Violà! Case closed. Each and every day his attorneys use typical lawyer tactics to delay or dismiss the lawsuits, it looks like there is something to hide and the conspiracy will get stronger.

Now, I suppose this is a minute chance that Mr. Obama was born in Kenya. There is an affidavit of a witness claiming his grandmother said as much. I doubt that it's true, but if it is, then the Constitution precludes him from serving as our President. It seems to me that this is clearly an issue of fact which is appropriate for the court to decide.

So, I disagree with Mr. Horowitz that conservatives should shut up about this issue. Instead, Mr. Obama and his attorneys should present incontrovertible evidence of his citizenship and be done with it. Then let's move on. We have some serious issues to deal with in this country and fueling a legitimacy argument will not help us move forward, only hold us back.

Honor Your Family Members Who Serve or Have Served

Yesterday we commemorated the 67th anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day and honored those who were at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, especially those who died in service to their country on that day. We honor our Veterans on Veteran's Day and those who have given their lives throughout our history while serving in the military on Memorial Day. But how many of you are aware that on the third Saturday of every May we as citizens are to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country on what is knowns as “Armed Forces Day”? Not many, I guess. Why am I bringing this up in December? Unfortunately, we Americans, including our government, don't do enough to honor the current active duty and reserve members of our military. Why isn't the Armed Forces Day celebrated? Do you ever hear anything about it? Well, that's a topic I will discuss in more detail next May.

For now, I would like to honor those in my family who currently serve and have served our wonderful country. We all should take a moment to do the same. The sacrifices they make are many. We civilians get to choose where to live, whether its due to the beautiful scenery, the job we applied for or the schools for our children. Our service members go where they're told. We civilians usually get a good night's sleep, a home-cooked (or restaurant-cooked) meal and time to lounge in front of our large-screened LCD or Plasma TVs. Our deployed service members work all day on a few hours sleep, eat packaged meals (although some say they are tasty) and don't get to sit in a recliner to watch the 25th season of Survivor. And some of them make the ultimate sacrifice by laying down their life to help shield a buddy from a grenade, an IED or bullet.

We thank in general our military during the above-mentioned days, but do we ever thank our family members personally? I am sure many do, but my wife and I want to take this opportunity to thank ours publicly:

Active Duty
Brother-in-law, Lt. Col., USAF, F-16 Fighter Pilot and Commander of his Squadron
Nephew, 1st Lt., USAF, AC-130U Gunship Navigator

Veteran
Father, USAF
Step-Father, USMC
2 Uncles, USN
2 Uncles, USA
Grandfather, USA & USAF
2 Great Uncles, USN (both at Pearl Harbor)
Cousin, USA
Cousin, USMC

Thank you for your service. You make this country strong and proud. I invite all who read this blog entry to thank their family members who are serving or have served by adding a comment.

What does patriotism mean to you?

The definition of “patriotism” according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is “love for or devotion to one's country.” Is that what it means to you? Now, I have heard in the media many claim that patriotism is questioning, criticizing or outright opposing our government and/or its policies. I suppose one could argue that they love this country so much that to question, criticize or oppose our government or its policies is a response to a wrong course of action. That does sound reasonable.

However, let's look at the dictionary definition of patriotism a little more closely. Using the same source, “love” means affection based on admiration, benevolence or common interest and “devotion” means the fact or state of being ardently dedicated and loyal.

Can someone tell me how it is patriotic to compare our military's actions in Iraq and Afghanistan to that of the terrorists or to claim that somehow the actions of both are morally equivalent? Can someone explain to me that when our government takes certain actions to protect our country from further terrorist acts, such as interrogations, surveillance and detainment of enemies trying to kill Americans, we are vilified and looked upon as worse than the terrorists themselves? That does not seem to be a response based on admiration, benevolence (i.e., kindness) or common interest. That does not seem to be a response from someone who is ardently dedicated or loyal to our country. That's because it isn't. That's not patriotism, no matter how you look at it or try to sugarcoat it.

Look, no is saying that we should blindly follow our leaders and no one is saying that the United States can do no wrong. Clearly if we as a country engage in immoral or illegal conduct, then someone must put a stop to it. But let's call a spade a spade. If you are of the ilk that believe our country's actions since September 11th have been immoral and illegal, then stand up and say so. Be proud to say, “darn right, I'm not being patriotic at the moment because I disagree with the path we are on.” Then vote for the leaders you feel will put us on the right path. But whatever you do, please don't hope that our country loses a war, don't compare the brave men and women of our military to terrorists who not only hate America but would like to see every one of us dead, and lastly don't say that you are being patriotic if you do.

Fly Your Flag on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day - December 7, 2008

Sixty seven years ago, in the early morning of December 7, 1941, our country was viciously and brutally attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy. At 6:00 a.m. six Japanese aircraft carriers launched a first wave of 181 aircraft. Achieving complete surprise, these aircraft bombed and strafed military installations and airfields all over the Hawaiian Islands, including the U.S. Pacific Fleet based at Pearl Harbor. Over 2,400 Americans lost their lives, of which 1,177 of them were crewman of the USS Arizona. Our once divided country became united in resolve and purpose that has not been seen since.

Most of you reading this post probably were not alive at the time and only know about the attack from history books, documentaries, or sadly, the movies. One cannot truly fathom what is was like to be there on that fateful day. However, this Action Report from Ensign W.J. Bush, a Commanding Officer of the USS Arizona, vividly describes his experience and gives insight to the horror and pain thousands endured:

“At about two or three minutes before 0800 Sunday, I was asleep in my room when I faintly heard a siren. Shortly thereafter I distinctly heard G.Q. I put some clothes on and went up from lower wardroom country to the second deck. Lt. C.T. Janz was sending everyone in the vicinity to shelter below the armored deck. I went down with Lt. Janz and about forty enlisted men. Before we could close the hatch, there were three violent blasts with flame and powder fumes entering the compartment. I then told all personnel in the vicinity to get out and go topside to avoid the gas. About twenty (20) enlisted personnel and myself went topside. I saw the entire ship forward of #3 turret to be a raging fire. I asked Ensign Davison about fighting the fire and he told me there was no water in the fire main. Shortly thereafter, Ensign Davison and myself got three boats clear of the oil fire on the water and picked up the men in the water who had jumped to get clear of the fire. We took several boatloads of badly burned and injured men to Ford Island landing and continued picking up men in the water between the ship and the shore. I took one boat alongside the quarter of the Arizona and waited until everyone gathered on the stern had been taken off. Ensign Lenning, Ensign Miller and Lt. Comdr. Fuqua made sure no one could be rescued from the after end of the ship before they left. We then picked the men up out of the water and put everyone ashore at Ford Island landing. Lt. Comdr. Fuqua took one boat and left to search the water for injured men. After sending all injured men to the dispensary, we took the remainder to the air raid shelter below Admiral Bellinger's quarters. Ensign Davison assisted me in directing the rescue work even though he was badly burned himself.”

We should never forget what our brave men and women of WWII sacrificed for our country. Congress has designated December 7 as “National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day” and each year the President urges by proclamation all Federal agencies, interested organizations, groups and individuals to fly the flag of the United States at half staff in honor of those who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor. To all who were at Pearl Harbor and other Hawaiian military installations that infamous day, we thank you for your valiant efforts and sacrifices.

Should it be illegal to desecrate the flag?

This is a question that has been around since the 1980's. Now, I know for all of you free speech purists out there that the US Supreme Court has already ruled on this issue by declaring flag burning/desecration protected speech under the US Constitution. However, the issue doesn't stop there. We the people have the ability to amend the Constitution to make flag desecration illegal. Should we?

Clearly, the prohibition of flag burning is meant to stifle a person's expression... an expression of dislike, anger or even hatred of the United States and/or its policies. That does counter our founders' intentions when enacting the Bill of Rights. Plus, the proper disposal of a flag is by burning it! I'm sure that any prohibition would provide an exception for flag disposal, which shines the spotlight even more on the real motives behind making it illegal.

However, so many men and women have died fighting for that flag and the ideals it represents. Can't we have one sacred symbol of this country that is so revered, so important that we all stand up and say "no, you can't desecrate it"?

Look, I understand the legal arguments behind the court's refusal to allow the prohibition of flag desecration, but I also understand the emotional arguments behind those that support such a ban. Sometimes emotions should prevail and I think this is one situation where they should.

Your thoughts?

Which material is best for my flag?

Flags are used for many different purposes by many different people. Some flags are used for outdoor display, others for memorial purposes, and still others for indoor display. Depending on its use, a flag can be made out of nylon, cotton, a polycotton blend, polyester, or a special kind of "spun" polyester.

Polycotton blend or polyester - these materials print very well and are attractive. Their best feature is economy, making them excellent for temporary use or where cost is an issue. However, flags made out of these materials will not last very long in outdoor use even in normal weather conditions which means you'll be buying more flags in the long run.

Cotton - a traditional and, to many, the most beautiful material. It has a natural feel and a pleasant "heft." However, like anything made of cotton, it is less durable and should therefore be used for decorative or ceremonial purposes. This essentially means that you should buy a cotton flag for indoor use only. If used indoors, a cotton flag will last a very long time and keep its natural beauty.

Nylon - the most durable and serviceable option. Nylon is durable, retains color well, flies in a breeze well, and is easily cleaned. Nylon flags are the most popular outdoor flags. Even the slightest breeze will make a nylon flag fly. This is a great option; however, if you live in a very windy area or an area with other harsh weather conditions, your best bet is "spun" polyester.

"Spun" polyester - a special, premium material that holds up well in windy or harsh conditions. Because it is spun, it has the feel of cotton, but its synthetic nature gives it the durability of nylon. While "spun" polyester flags last longer than nylon flags, keep in mind that due to the heavier material the flag will not fly as much in light breezes. Also, this material is slightly more expensive than nylon. You can't go wrong with either a nylon or "spun" polyester flag.

Remember to always treat a flag with common sense and respect, never fold it wet, regardless of material, and replace it whenever it reaches a condition not befitting the symbol of the country. Go to Shining Star Flags & Bandanas today to find just the right flag for you.