Jim, it's unfortunate that it takes an event like 9/11 to bring out our flags and patriotism.  Thanks for a good post.  Happy Fourth!

Jim... this is some awesome stuff that I never really knew about until just the other day. Thanks for sharing this. In regards to flying the flags, I wish more people would read what you wrote. Maybe they would get a better understanding on how lucky they are.

One thing that irks the hell out of me. I know this is a free country per se, that we have freedom of speach. But those that burn the Flag, especially here in the United States,...sorry, but should be shoot. I am so dead serious about this. They just have no idea on how many lost their lives throughtout the years, that kept their ancestors safe, to keep them safe, their families safe, and their families families. Thanks for this post.

It is unfortunate Brian; it seem teaching American History is a lost subject in many of our schools.

Jeff, we have lots of freedoms in this country; to me the most important ones are the freedom to try most anything you want to and the freedom to fail and then to try again.

Freedom is a hallmark of America; Americans have been giving their lives since 1776 and beyond to keep her that way.

Jim,

One flag out on my cul de sac... mine. Guess I'm the only veteran. Or the only one who knows what this day is all about. Wish I had a better feeling for what lies ahead in this country, but I fear some dark days, and we need to teach the kids what a good thing they've got, before it is too late.

Hi Jim just a thought. Our company Coldwell Banker in kerrville, Texas put up thousands of flags on the evening of July 3rd. last night I put out 50 in my neighborhood and everyone thanks me. Sometimes we get a call saying stop soliciting because we put our business cards in the stick. We are proud and thankful

Jim, it is a sad thing that is for sure.  Children are not taught what July 4th means, they think it is a day of "fun" and do not know the history behind this day becoming a National Holiday, I wonder if some adults aren't aware of the "reason" they have a day off from work themselves.  It is just like Christmas, children feel as though it is all about them and while I will admit that I enjoy watching my children's eyes light up on Christmas morning, I am saddened and have become aware over the years when they are disappointed because they didnt' get exactly what they wanted.  Those moments made me clearly aware of the fact, at that time in their lives, at that particular moment in our lives, that I had failed at teaching them what Christmas really was about and to their shock, it wasn't all about them.  Folks have to stop and teach the reason for the celebrations and holidays, they are doing such a disservice to their family, friends, children etc., by  not recognizing what the day is really about.  Great post!!