There are practical ways each of us can advance
American
patriotism and support our Armed Forces.
Recent
events in the Middle East, watching our young men and women
on television as they fight to give the gift of freedom to people
they do not know, have filled me with pride. All those young,
confident men and women, they know what they are doing, and
they know what they are doing is right. Regardless of their
position-whether as a force advancing to establish freedom or
as peacekeepers maintaining stability-our Armed Services need
to know we are behind them 100%.
Like you, I want to help. I want to do more than watch television
and hear news reports. The flood of images-so distant, on the
other side of the world, yet so close, on the television screen
in our own living rooms-tend to make us feel helpless and frustrated.
Yet there are practical ways each of us can take direct, personal
action in support of our military personnel, wherever they are.
First of all, we can fly the flag at our homes, offices, and
wherever else it is appropriate to display the "Stars and
Stripes." June 14, Flag Day, would be a great time to begin
this custom, keeping it every day thereafter. Our hearts will
swell with pride as we see "Old Glory" waving in the
wind, and others will be inspired by our example.
Second, participate in or generate patriotic celebrations open
to the public, such as Flag Day this month and the Fourth of
July next month. If your Valley does not have special observances
on these patriotic holidays, initiate their organization and
make them personal. Invite and specifically recognize the families
of service men and women. Don't overlook honoring siblings,
grandparents, or other relatives. Like a soldier's immediate
family, they, too, are under great stress and will welcome your
support. And remember those who have sacrificed in earlier wars.
Single out and honor the veterans in your Valley, ask a representative
veteran to comment on his wartime experiences and to share his
view of where we are today. See that the sacrifices of your
veterans do not go unnoticed.
Third, give direct, practical support to the dependents, the
wives and children, of those who are serving our country. What
a comfort it will be to the men and women in uniform to know
someone is personally looking out for their loved ones. Some
Masonic Bodies are already seeing that the needs of service
families are being met. Sample services would be offering to
mow the lawn, run an errand, or provide a ride while the family
car is being repaired. Every Scottish Rite Valley can find out
the names of its members who are in the service, contact their
families, and simply ask "How can we help?" If there
is a financial need, certainly the Almoner should be informed.
Also, remember that many Reserve units have been called up.
Check with local businesses. They should be able to identify
the families of Reservists, and even if no help is needed, you
can be sure the family of any soldier will be greatly comforted
to know you are thinking of them and ready to be of assistance.
Fourth, there are many direct ways to benefit the troops in
the field. Several Internet sites provide information.
