Patriotism: Obama vs. McCain

One Veterans Perspective on the Patriotism Question

by Peter Macdonald

Two equal sides to Patriotism told by two different but equal U.S. Citizens. One see Patriotism as something in the gut, the other views it by the history of the Veteran. One sees it as remembering child hood history and memory of historical events witnessed by him with is family. The other see it as putting the country first, before party or personal ambition before anything that all people share the responsibility of freedom.

One person gets his message by listening to Veterans, knowing through personal experiences of risking everything to sacrifice for the privilege to be an American. The other by way of his grandfather’s pride in serving-a country where we have the unparalleled freedom to pursue our dreams.

One defines Patriotism as a faith in simple dreams, an insistence on small miracles. We can tuck in our children at night and know that they are fed and clothed and safe from harm. We can say and write what we think, without hearing a sudden knock on the door. We can have an idea and start our own businesses without paying a bribe. In American anything is possible. The other see America as a place where two sides can disagree on public issues, argue, fight and still be friends the next moment. A place where any one can express an idea with out fear of retribution from a higher authority.

A place where love of liberty and self-reliance still check the excesses of both government and man. One understands that only in America can a half white-black man achieve such success and travel as far as his energy and talents will take him. The other understands we must all be good citizens in public office or in the community. That we should all argue with each other as did Adams and Jefferson (our founding fathers) about politics and policy but remain friends after.

Both these men Obama and McCain have told the true meaning of how they view Patriotism. This is what makes the United States the greatest nation in the world. One see Patriotism from the view of the eighty-nine percent enjoying freedom. The other sacrificed his life for that freedom. Veteran’s can no longer be treated as second class citizens.

I like and admire both of these men. I wish that I could vote for both of these men. Patriotism to me is the sacrifice every person that ever serviced in our military or fought for the United States of American, in politics or uniform. Patriotism is to love a country where you will give everything for people that you do not even know. People that may not even be born yet.

Peter Macdonald Sgt USMC Semper Fi

DEFINITION FROM DICTIONARY.COM

Patriotism:  NOUN – devoted love, support, and defense of one’s country; national loyalty.