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We celebrate Flag Day around here

I remembered when I was in the Air Force stationed at Elmendorf AFB, there was a guy they called Sgt 35-10. 35-10 was the regulation that told you how to dress, wear or not wear your hair, and things like that. He would post a story or such in the base paper about things he'd see or what was good. I was in the Shopette (like a 7-11) in the checkout line with my then wife and Sgt 35-10 was right behind me. I never thought much of it. I had read his stories, some pretty funny. He said to me "Sargent Dorsey, you look pretty sharp. Your uniform is right on. You are a fine example of a NCO." I didn't know what to say, but I did say thank you.
 
 I was always proud to wear my uniform, even when it wasn't cool. I'd wear it to travel home on leave, or to a temporary station, I didn't care, I was proud of what I did and who I did it for.
 I probably got that from my dad. We called him Big George. He was a part of the Greatest Generation. After WWII he became a fireman. He was required to wear his dress uniform going to and from work. He looked good in it. One of my favorite memories is him in his fire department uniform just getting home from work. Back then he wore a flat top hair cut and he was missing his front tooth. He walked around the corner of the house, there was this huge smile and I ran and hugged him welcoming him home. Btw, I miss you Big George! I can't read this paragraph without getting a tear in my eye.
He'd always hang the flag out on the front porch for holidays and if he wasn't home because of work, he'd have me do it.
Well guess what Big George, I'm still doing it. Maybe a little more often than just holidays.
 I got the yard mess all piled up and today was a good day for a bon fire. It got to 79°. The tires and stuff is loaded in the truck. I'll make a dump run tomorrow. But the old pallets and rotted logs and such made a pretty fire and a hot one too.
 I'm still pretty proud, proud of that flag. What it stands for, who stood or stands with it. I'm long retired and no longer wear a uniform, but you can count on me and Ol' Glory. Our country is going through some trying times, but there is still no other place I'd want to live. I won't get up on a political soap box or anything. Btw, If you show any sign of disrespect towards Ol' Glory, I won't promise I'll value your opinion.
 
I hope you had a Happy Flag Day!

Comments

Diane said…
Your comments brought a tear to my eye too. Love your writing. Big George sure is proud of you!
Renee said…
Well said, Dave. You reminded me of my Dad. I miss him, too. Thank you!
eileeninmd said…
Great post! We live in a wonderful country! My father's name was George too! Happy Monday, have a great week ahead!
Anonymous said…
A lovely homage to your father and to the flag.
Linda said…
A beautiful and touching tribute to your dear father. You reminded me of my father...he fought in WWII and sadly became a prisoner of the Nazis. He died in 1984 and I still miss him.
How sweet and touching and what a beautiful place to live. I would love to visit one day it on my list of places to go lol
csuhpat1 said…
Very nice. We celebrate Flag Day in my house. Very touching story.
DrillerAA said…
Flag day is probably the least celebrated of the patriotic days in our nation. Everyone celebrates Memorial Day, 4th of July, even Labor Day has a patriotic spin. But flag day seems to come and go without much fanfare. That's a little sad.
Sarah said…
Touching story. We definitely celebrate Flag Day. Thanks for sharing.
Sarah said…
Touching story. We definitely celebrate Flag Day. Thanks for sharing.
Beth F said…
Great post and tribute to your dad.
I always try to model respect for the flag each morning at my primary school. Children are just learning about the world in my school and I share a little of my love for America after the pledge time.

Here's my Wordless Wednesday!
betty-NZ said…
This is a wonderful post. I think everyone should respect the flag as she flies. It has an interesting story.