John J. Clark IV
2001 Grand Prize Winner
Scottish Rite Paul R. Kach DeMolay Prize Americanism
Essay Contest Winner, 10th Grade and Below Category
Groveport Chapter
1400 Hideaway Woods Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081

Given our nation's recent tragedies, these prize-winning DeMolay Americanism essays take on a special significance.

As the last rays of the December 1778 sun quietly disappeared behind the frozen horizon, a small band of fatigued soldiers gathered along the banks of the Delaware River. On Christmas Day of that year, George Washington, leader of the American Continental Army, led his weary troops to one of the most decisive victories of the Revolutionary War. These troops, although defying the greatest military power of the time, proudly held their heads high and called themselves patriots. We honor the heroic actions of these gallant men, some of whom gave their lives in defense of the rights and liberties we take for granted today.

This sense of patriotism permeates DeMolay. Our Order is structured upon seven cardinal virtues, lessons which we all, as active DeMolays, strive to incorporate into our daily lives: filial love, reverence for what is sacred, courtesy, comradeship, fidelity, cleanness, and patriotism. Just as our heroic posterity before us understood the importance of patriotism, we too hold it as the final virtue necessary for a clean and moral manhood. Now, more than ever, it is important that we do not lose sight of what our obligations as citizens truly mean.

Continuing in the patriotic tradition of our forefathers, from an early age, we are taught the "Pledge of Allegiance" and the "Star-Spangled Banner," each a great part of our American heritage, but one symbol eclipses them both, "Old Glory," the flag of the United States.

Our flag has gone through many changes over the years as the might and prestige of our country have grown. Since the early development of our nation, we have been faced with many trials testing our faith, and today we are confronted with a new challenge, worldwide terrorism, as never before witnessed on our soil. But we are strong. Through diligence and determination, we will remain one of the greatest countries of all time.

Many historic figures have taken part in this development. They include Francis Scott Key whose feelings are best described by the verses of our national anthem: "And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night, that our flag was still there." Even in the arms of the enemy, in this case the British during the War of 1812, American pride and patriotism triumphed. The lasting symbol of these values is the American flag which we wave more proudly today than ever before.

According to the dictionary, patriotism is "the love and support one feels for their country," but the true explanation of patriotism is far more complex than a nine-word definition. Patriotism requires more than love of country; it also requires action, good citizenship, and a love for the people who make up that country. Throughout time, patriotism and good citizenship have evolved to fit our changing times, and we all carry the patriotic blood of our ancestors. Time has immortalized the actions of America's heroes, but we cannot always see the lessons they intended for us to learn. Sometimes, we need dramatic events to bring us back to a true understanding of patriotism.

Love of country isn't evidenced only by brave actions during war, the verses of a national anthem, or even immortal speeches by famous Americans. Rather, it is decided by daily actions from our hearts which express love of one's homeland and love for all who live in that country. Philosophers and politicians alike have posed perplexing questions about patriotism and national pride, and, thanks to the unselfish actions of Americans past and present, we are closer to finding these answers.

Also, patriotism can be seen through the monuments we build, read in the stories we carry on from generation to generation, and heard in the stirring music we enjoy. In every corner of our wondrous country, we see our respect and love for each other and for our nation amplified by these works. Today, as we continue to evolve a full understanding of this vital virtue, patriotism is a vital part of being an American. It can best be summed up in the words of President John F. Kennedy: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."

In 2001, as in previous years, the Supreme Council, 33°, is pleased to sponsor the Scottish Rite Paul R. Kach, 33°, DeMolay Prize Americanism Essay Competition. The nationwide contest is divided into eight regional competitions and has two grade levels: 10th grade and below and 11th grade and above. Each regional winner receives a check for $300. Each national winner receives an additional $1,200. The year 2001 Grand Prize Essays in both grade categories are presented, edited for length, in this issue of the Scottish Rite Journal. For a list of other year 2001 winners, click here.
  John J. Clark IV
is currently a freshman at Westerville North High School (near Columbus, Ohio) where he is a trombonist in the school's symphonic and marching bands. An active member in the Groveport Chapter DeMolay, he has completed all sections of the Leadership Correspondence Course and is currently working on completing his Representative DeMolay Award. John enjoys writing and has published several online newspaper articles for the Chapter's web page, for which he is head reporter.