Saturday, Nov. 15, 2008

Forestbrook kids know of patriotism

I've never joined a veteran's organization, and as a result, I sometimes have to remind myself that I spent four years in the service of our country. It was a long time ago, and there's been a lot of water over the Bestler dam.

Recently, the students and faculty at Forestbrook Middle School brought me back with a bang.

In a celebration in honor of the nation's veterans, the 1,200 students reminded me of the heartfelt respect and admiration our young people hold toward those who served and are serving in the defense of our country.

It was a humbling experience, and from all I could see, the future of America is in good hands.

The program began with the color guard of VFW Post 10420 presenting the flags of the five services - Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and, of course, the Marine Corps. The presentations were accompanied by patriotic music from Forestbrook's chorus and band ensemble.

I must tell you that when the flag of the Marine Corps was presented to the stirring sound of the "Marines' Hymn," I felt a shiver I haven't felt in years. Thanks, Forestbrook.

The final salute was a silent tribute to America's missing in action and POWs.

I was there to speak on patriotism, but before I began, I told the students that from what I had seen, most of them probably could write a better speech on patriotism than I.

One wall at Forestbrook contained photos of students' relatives who had served in the military; another held patriotic poetry and essays written by the students.

But there was more.

Career development facilitator Eileen M. Patonay, who had invited me to speak, said the students had raised about $1,000 to help veterans. That is an annual project, and the money is distributed through the Murrells Inlet VFW post to help terminally ill patients at veterans' hospitals - for instance, buying comfortable rocking chairs that aren't otherwise available.

It was an impressive project, and I'm not sure my few words measured up.

I spoke about patriotism and told the students that each of them can perform acts of patriotism every day - by obeying the law, listening to parents and teachers, volunteering to perform community service.

I also stressed that patriotism means getting good grades so they can help America compete more strongly with smart scientists, smart teachers, smart citizens.

I think the kids at Forestbrook Middle School already know that.

ONLINE | For past columns, go to the Bestler page at MyrtleBeachOnline.com.