Pride starts young

     As a child, when I was growing up, we got up in class every morning and recited the “pledge of allegiance”. We recited those words every day for a good majority of our lives but never did “understand”, or should I say “respect” those words .I was even the one who helped raise the flag every morning. I carefully unfolded it, never to allow it to touch the ground, as I was told. I did not know why but certainly respected that flag. I understood it as a symbol of a Nation. I had respect for its value.

      Twenty seven years ago(Sept 18th), I got up and dressed and drove to Boston with a dozen  very scared kids my age. One year prior to that I signed up on my own (my Dad was pissed…lol) in the United States Marine corps in the delayed entry program. It was my personal decision to join the Marines. I felt it was my duty as an American. I did not sign up for school money. I honesty did not plan on coming home. I vividly remember looking my Dad in the eye and feeling like it was my last time seeing him. Oddly I was not sad as I felt I was doing something unselfishly incredible. My Dad WAS upset though. His little Canadian voice crackled as he looked away without crying. My Dad is my hero and wanted to make him proud. I drove off with a tear in my eye but Fire in my soul!

       I spent a good 4 years in the Marines and was witness to some amazing things. It was the most proud times of my life and I feel fortunate to be a citizen of our great country. I always reflect back as a boy, standing outside of my little school with that Flag. I was so elated to be picked for the task.

I suppose the moral of my story is BE PROUD of who you are and be grateful for your country. With all the craziness going on overseas, all the ridiculous mudslinging going on between  political parties, with whatever negative things we are subjected to in the media, one things for sure….. You are an American and nobody can take that away from your heart if you see its value. Stand tall and be grateful!

Semper Fidelis…..

Cpl. Gerry Blais-USMC 1985 and forever