Unpatriotic Americans

[vlm790]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

[I'm Popeye!]

Coming soon, it's OVER! :sad:

[Taltarzac725]

Really enjoy Hayfire. The great thing about the USA is freedom to not stand for whatever. And in some other countries not conforming to the mob comes with a great price.

[JSR22]

I do not stand for that song.

[collie1228]

I am a proud veteran, love my country, served in a war, member of the American Legion, and a volunteer for Honor Flight. I feel I am a true patriot. I will proudly stand for the pledge and the national anthem, but I do not make a special effort to stand for the Lee Greenwood song. I was eating dinner once in the bowling alley restaurant in Spanish Springs when karaoke was going on, and the DJ played the Lee Greenwood song and expected everyone to stand. I did not. I got some stink-eye looks from neighboring tables, but I won't be intimidated by anyone. There are any number of patriotic songs that can be played. Only the national anthem deserves special respect.

[JMintzer]

I do not stand for that song.

I believe the OP was talking about standing for the Pledge of Allegiance...

[JSR22]

I believe the OP was talking about standing for the Pledge of Allegiance...

Disagree.

[dewilson58]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

Maybe they are citizens of the USA.

:shrug::shrug:

[Lottoguy]

It's a very good song that is also the lead in for a speech from a certain politican. Many people know this and it's a shame this song is closely attributed to him. As a Viet Nam veteran I too only stand for the Pledge and our National Anthem.

[Keefelane66]

I do not stand for that song.
I'm all for citing the pledge at Goverment meetings, Citizenship Ceremonies and Special Ceremonies.
Normally I don't pledge Allegiance inanimate objects when I enlisted I swore to uphold the Constitution.

[mickey100]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

:bigbow: Agree. I can't believe the people that think patriotism is all about having a bunch of flags on your golf cart, or playing a popular song. And patriotism is different than Nationalism.

[mickey100]

I am a proud veteran, love my country, served in a war, member of the American Legion, and a volunteer for Honor Flight. I feel I am a true patriot. I will proudly stand for the pledge and the national anthem, but I do not make a special effort to stand for the Lee Greenwood song. I was eating dinner once in the bowling alley restaurant in Spanish Springs when karaoke was going on, and the DJ played the Lee Greenwood song and expected everyone to stand. I did not. I got some stink-eye looks from neighboring tables, but I won't be intimidated by anyone. There are any number of patriotic songs that can be played. Only the national anthem deserves special respect.

Agree. Thank you for your service.

[JMintzer]

Disagree.

I disagree with your disagreement...

[golfing eagles]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

My opinion, for what it is worth:

Standing for "Proud to be an American" and standing for the Pledge of Allegiance is two vastly different things, and there is no political "posture" associated with the Pledge of Allegiance.

[Bill14564]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

I don't recall there being a flag at the Brownwood stage. Did Hayfire have one at their performance?

If they brought one in just for this song, was it transported, presented, and placed correctly and did those attending react properly?

I'm really uncomfortable with the idea of using the pledge as part of a performance To open a meeting, absolutely. To elicit a response by an audience at your performance, no.

[fdpaq0580]

I am a proud veteran, love my country, served in a war, member of the American Legion, and a volunteer for Honor Flight. I feel I am a true patriot. I will proudly stand for the pledge and the national anthem, but I do not make a special effort to stand for the Lee Greenwood song. I was eating dinner once in the bowling alley restaurant in Spanish Springs when karaoke was going on, and the DJ played the Lee Greenwood song and expected everyone to stand. I did not. I got some stink-eye looks from neighboring tables, but I won't be intimidated by anyone. There are any number of patriotic songs that can be played. Only the national anthem deserves special respect.

You would get no "stink eye" from me. I would be busy eating my dinner, too.

[rustyp]

My opinion, for what it is worth:

Standing for "Proud to be an American" and standing for the Pledge of Allegiance is two vastly different things, and there is no political "posture" associated with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Given we have many Canadian home owners in TV I have often wondered 1 - what they do 2 - how they feel when various groups at the rec centers start their activity with the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the USA.

[fdpaq0580]

Given we have many Canadian home owners in TV I have often wondered 1 - what they do 2 - how they feel when various groups at the rec centers start their activity with the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the USA.

Spent a lot of time in Canada. Canada is our neighbor, friend and ally. Out of courtesy we would stand respectfully during those times their anthem was played. That's what friends do, imho.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I don’t know why people think this milk sop song should require standing for , I guess it’s one of those only in the village moments and no I never stand for it , I’m afraid to ,I might get sick on the person in front of me and I have to wonder why the pledge is being used for a bands performance , sort of like the used car dealer with the 30 flags outside proclaiming he’s proud to be an American , I’ve always stood for the national anthem and that’s it and I would only stand for the pledge in a proper setting and not for the PR stunt by some band , and I shouldn’t have to defend my post but I’ll say this I’m a Vietnam combat multi Purple Heart , multi tour paratrooper who went back with another government agency doing the same thing in Laos , and Cambodia

[fdpaq0580]

I don’t know why people think this milk sop song should require standing for , I guess it’s one of those only in the village moments and no I never stand for it , I’m afraid to ,I might get sick on the person in front of me and I have to wonder why the pledge is being used for a bands performance , sort of like the used car dealer with the 30 flags outside proclaiming he’s proud to be an American , I’ve always stood for the national anthem and that’s it and I would only stand for the pledge in a proper setting and not for the PR stunt by some band , and I shouldn’t have to defend my post but I’ll say this I’m a Vietnam combat multi Purple Heart , multi tour paratrooper who went back with another government agency doing the same thing in Laos , and Cambodia

"You da Man!" But you already knew that.

[eyc234]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

:bowdown::bowdown: bowdown::bowdown 1000% agree. Not one person knows what is in a person's heart and mind. You can not say whether a person is patriotic due to your definition, just like you can not say whether someone is religious with your definition.

[rustyp]

Spent a lot of time in Canada. Canada is our neighbor, friend and ally. Out of courtesy we would stand respectfully during those times their anthem was played. That's what friends do, imho.

My question was specific to the pledge of allegiance. Given you spent a lot of time in Canada how did you handle standing to give an "oath" to a foreign country's flag ? Standing for an anthem is not the same as taking an oath.

How did you handle it ?

Simply stand
Stand and remove your cap
Stand with hand over heart
Stand with hand over heart and pretend to mouth the words

How often did this happen to you ? At what kind of events ? Here in TV this realistically could be a daily event to a Canadian home owner participating in rec activities.

Spoiler alert - Canadians do not have a pledge of allegiance to their flag.

Did you know our pledge of allegiance was invented as a marketing ploy to sell magazines ?

[Two Bills]

I stand for my own UK national anthem (a dire dirge) and any other nations.
I would respect The Pledge of Allegiance if the done thing was to stand.
Apart from that I stand for nothing, and I cannot stand overt patriotism.

[Bogie Shooter]

Given we have many Canadian home owners in TV I have often wondered 1 - what they do 2 - how they feel when various groups at the rec centers start their activity with the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the USA.

I don’t see the point in saying the pledge before a clay modeling class at a rec center………………..
This is really being done?

[vlm790]

Thank you !! I was talking about the pledge of allegiance

[rustyp]

I don’t see the point in saying the pledge before a clay modeling class at a rec center………………..
This is really being done?

Yes many many times - Example quilt guilds and nurse's club.

[Stu from NYC]

I disagree with your disagreement...

I agree with your disagreement!:bigbow:

[Chi-Town]

Saw Lee Greenwood perform God Bless the U.S.A. a long time ago. I really enjoyed the experience as it was the first time and it moved me. Now it appears to be a way for a performer to engage an audience that has been less than enthusiastic. Also, the Pledge of Allegiance is not meant to be an attention getter. I have stood for O Canada at the Blackhawks game when they play it for visiting Canadian teams.

.

[JMintzer]

Thank you !! I was talking about the pledge of allegiance

Most of us knew that...



Edit to add: After re-reading the thread, I'm even more surprised how many couldn't noodle that thru...

[fdpaq0580]

My question was specific to the pledge of allegiance. Given you spent a lot of time in Canada how did you handle standing to give an "oath" to a foreign country's flag ? Standing for an anthem is not the same as taking an oath.

How did you handle it ?

Simply stand
Stand and remove your cap
Stand with hand over heart
Stand with hand over heart and pretend to mouth the words

How often did this happen to you ? At what kind of events ? Here in TV this realistically could be a daily event to a Canadian home owner participating in rec activities.

Spoiler alert - Canadians do not have a pledge of allegiance to their flag.

Did you know our pledge of allegiance was invented as a marketing ploy to sell magazines ?

Never had to be concerned with any foreign "oath". Just anthems.

[fdpaq0580]

Thank you !! I was talking about the pledge of allegiance

Which version? I learned it before the "under God" part was added as a sop to the Christian right. Still don't say that part. I'm such a rebel.

[blueash]

Which version? I learned it before the "under God" part was added as a sop to the Christian right. Still don't say that part. I'm such a rebel.

There was no Christian right back in the mid 50's, rather the Under god was added by the power of the Knights of Columbus as a way to promote their view of how we should differ from "godless" Communism. It was during the peak of McCarthyism and blacklists and checking for Commies under your bed that we got the additional verbiage.

[Boffin]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.
It is called freedom. Specifically freedom of choice.

[golfing eagles]

There was no Christian right back in the mid 50's, rather the Under god was added by the power of the Knights of Columbus as a way to promote their view of how we should differ from "godless" Communism. It was during the peak of McCarthyism and blacklists and checking for Commies under your bed that we got the additional verbiage.

But the real question is: Did anyone in that era ever find a communist under their bed?????

[Laker14]

Can't I just go to a show and not have to deal with this stuff?

[EdFNJ]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?. For a little girl reciting the Pledge of Allegiance .... MAYBE I'd stand just to make her feel special, but not for a commercial song just because it's become a "thing".

[Pairadocs]

"proud to be an American" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

And yet... for many decades people have stood, hand over heart, IN MASS at public gatherings and events when Kate Smith's "God Bless America" is sung. Are ALL those millions "unpatriotic" ? Certainly it is not the national Anthem, and NO ONE should be criticized for NOT standing, but Greenwood's rendition has become an "unofficial" national anthem and what harm is done if many come to their feet, or continue to sit ? The, "political posturing" by saying the pledge of allegiance to our country ? Posturing by a young child ? Posturing by a band who (if you think about it ) may just actually have a deep love of country ? Perhaps all members are veterans ? Don't know, but there are many possibilities !
Have you not seen people come to their feet at the playing of a college anthem, or at hearing a hymn like Amazing Grace ? Would those who stand, or sit, be considered "better", or "worse" Christians ? What is the REAL harm in emotionally reacting at a public entertainment, who is actually harmed ? And exactly does that indicate a lack of respect, or patriotism ? Perhaps a more accurate measure would just be the percentage of people who turn their back on the flag and anthem when presented ? The logic is missing here, we KNOW what is customary (standing in respect), but certainly there is NO flagrant disrespect for country, or God, by also reacting emotionally to many melodies !! Also, no one has the same experiences, but, I HAVE seen people (truckers in this case) going down the highway and saluting a passing flag. I did not, and do not, judge them disrespectful or non-patriotic for that ! Have also seen many salute the flag covering a casket, including my father's.

[Pairadocs]

. Do you put a hand over your heart every time a golf cart (or big azz truck with 6' high wheels) passes you with an American Flag flying from it? DO you stand every time The National Anthem is played on TV?

For a little girl reciting the Pledge of Allegiance .... MAYBE I'd stand just to make her feel special, but not for a song just because it's become a "thing".

Well the greatness of our country, a democratic REPUBLIC, is you, others, myself, we can all react as individuals. People do sometimes stand when the National anthem is played on TV, you've just not had that experience is all. When in the world is the connection between the SIZE OF WHEELS on a truck and having RESPECT for a symbol of our country ??? SIX FOOT Wheels ? SIX FOOT ? I did see those once at a demonstration of OFF ROAD MINING EQUIPMENT made by an American company, but have never seen six foot wheels on a big highway truck, not denying they are out there and running regularly at all.

[firefighter4u]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

My wife and I were just having this conversation. I couldn't agree with you more!

[Pairadocs]

You would get no "stink eye" from me. I would be busy eating my dinner, too.

But if I am interpreting this all correctly, the focus seems to be would/did you, a veteran, think LESS of those who did stand, I know my hubby, a marine who saw combat, would not, even if he continued to eat, he would not consider those who did stand a non-patriotic at all. That's the part that just doesn't make sense. It makes me think of something I never considered; are those who quietly bow their heads without fanfare, and SILENTLY say a pray before a meal in public, actually judged by those around them ? Never considered that, but it's the same category of comparison.

[Pairadocs]

Which version? I learned it before the "under God" part was added as a sop to the Christian right. Still don't say that part. I'm such a rebel.

That's the beauty of our nation, you don't have to. If we all lived in China, or in North Korea, none of us would dare refuse, and we'd all keep a picture of the "dear leader" in a prominent place in our homes. Here we can chose to NEVER have any picture of any politician in our home if we choose, yes, I am so lucky to be an American. Just to throw it in, I also like that our justice system differs from many other democracies in that here you are innocent until proved guilty, not the opposite !

[Bilyclub]

I would stand for the Pledge and don't think there is anything wrong with the band doing what they did. If some don't stand, so what.

[DonH57]

I am a proud veteran, love my country, served in a war, member of the American Legion, and a volunteer for Honor Flight. I feel I am a true patriot. I will proudly stand for the pledge and the national anthem, but I do not make a special effort to stand for the Lee Greenwood song. I was eating dinner once in the bowling alley restaurant in Spanish Springs when karaoke was going on, and the DJ played the Lee Greenwood song and expected everyone to stand. I did not. I got some stink-eye looks from neighboring tables, but I won't be intimidated by anyone. There are any number of patriotic songs that can be played. Only the national anthem deserves special respect.

Exactly. I'm a vet too and the only song I'll stand for is the national anthem. Standing for Greenwood's song spread in the villages like a cult.

[JMintzer]

. For a little girl reciting the Pledge of Allegiance .... MAYBE I'd stand just to make her feel special, but not for a commercial song just because it's become a "thing".

That was the point of the original post... Standing for the Pledge...

[JMintzer]

Exactly. I'm a vet too and the only song I'll stand for is the national anthem. Standing for Greenwood's song spread in the villages like a cult.

The thread was never about standing for Greenwood's song...

The original poster even clarified that point!

[DonH57]

The thread was never about standing for Greenwood's song...

The original poster even clarified that point!

I went back and read it. I don't see a clarification between the girl singing and the song. What's your reason to attack me? Because I view different?

[I'm Popeye!]

Just think about this: what OLD people are thinking about this on here; I wonder what these YOUNG college kids feel about it.
I know, Asta La Vista America, you are no more.

[fdpaq0580]

There was no Christian right back in the mid 50's, rather the Under god was added by the power of the Knights of Columbus as a way to promote their view of how we should differ from "godless" Communism. It was during the peak of McCarthyism and blacklists and checking for Commies under your bed that we got the additional verbiage.

That was a long time ago. I had forgotten. I stand corrected. Thank you!

[Two Bills]

But the real question is: Did anyone in that era ever find a communist under their bed?????

Given some of the paranoid responses on TOTV. many are still looking.
Just because you can't see them, it doesn't mean they are not there.:icon_wink:

[PersonOfInterest]

I don't understand why the Pledge is used at so many functions that have nothing to do with loyalty to the U.S. The pledge and song represent the freedom of a country where you should have the right / freedom to say the pledge or not and sit or stand for the song at your choosing. Why do you feel someone owes 'duty' to this country just because they were born here? There are also religious references in the Pledge as well. How do you think a Muslim, Hindu or atheist feel spouting loyalty to 'One Nation Under God'? If this country is going to Demand loyalty from everyone who is born here, then its not the country of Freedom that the pledge and song are about.

[Sandy and Ed]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.
At first reading this response I said “what the hell!!!” After thinking a bit more I agree with the points made but I will still stand to acknowledge the message in the song. As for the pledge, I would recite that whenever and wherever without a second thought.

[Sandy and Ed]

I don't understand why the Pledge is used at so many functions that have nothing to do with loyalty to the U.S. The pledge and song represent the freedom of a country where you should have the right / freedom to say the pledge or not and sit or stand for the song at your choosing. Why do you feel someone owes 'duty' to this country just because they were born here? There are also religious references in the Pledge as well. How do you think a Muslim, Hindu or atheist feel spouting loyalty to 'One Nation Under God'? If this country is going to Demand loyalty from everyone who is born here, then its not the country of Freedom that the pledge and song are about.
No comment. Shame we don’t have a simple “thumbs down” emoji.

[Topgun 1776]

Totally agree! Air Force retiree here!!!

[GizmoWhiskers]

It's a very good song that is also the lead in for a speech from a certain politican. Many people know this and it's a shame this song is closely attributed to him. As a Viet Nam veteran I too only stand for the Pledge and our National Anthem.
That song became famous in the 9/11 era if my old mind serves me correctly.

[GizmoWhiskers]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.
Pledge of allegence used to equal STAND; and a CHILD leading it... represent. How terrible for a child to see old adults sitting that could stand for the PLEDGE, not a song that is not the anthem. Just a thought.

[me4vt]

I don’t see the point in saying the pledge before a clay modeling class at a rec center………………..
This is really being done?
Similar to opening in prayer!

[Bill14564]

That song became famous in the 9/11 era if my old mind serves me correctly.

The Greenwood song? I first remember it being popular during the first Gulf War in the early 90s.

[skyking]

I agree with the original post. (Army officer.)

[me4vt]

I don't understand why the Pledge is used at so many functions that have nothing to do with loyalty to the U.S. The pledge and song represent the freedom of a country where you should have the right / freedom to say the pledge or not and sit or stand for the song at your choosing. Why do you feel someone owes 'duty' to this country just because they were born here? There are also religious references in the Pledge as well. How do you think a Muslim, Hindu or atheist feel spouting loyalty to 'One Nation Under God'? If this country is going to Demand loyalty from everyone who is born here, then its not the country of Freedom that the pledge and song are about.
We’re living in America where they choose to live! The Pledge is basically showing You believe in our Flag and America. Like opening in Prayer, showing People, In GOD we Trust!

[golfing eagles]

The Greenwood song? I first remember it being popular during the first Gulf War in the early 90s.

From Wikipedia:

"God Bless the U.S.A." (also known as "Proud to Be an American"[2][3][4]) is an American patriotic song written and recorded by American country music artist Lee Greenwood, and is considered to be his signature song. The first album it appears on is his 1984 album You've Got a Good Love Comin'. It reached No. 7 on the Billboard magazine Hot Country Singles chart when originally released in the spring of 1984, and was played at the 1984 Republican National Convention with President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan in attendance, but the song gained greater prominence during the Gulf War in 1990 and 1991 as a way of boosting morale. As a result of its newfound popularity, Greenwood re-recorded the track for his 1992 album American Patriot.

The popularity of the song rose again sharply after the September 11 attacks and during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and the song was re-released as a single, re-entering the country music charts at No. 16 and peaking at No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart in 2001.[5] A new version of the song was recorded in 2003 and released as "God Bless the U.S.A. 2003."

The song has sold over a million copies in the United States by July 2015.[6]

[mjr0773]

It’s a great song and has been long before it now seems to be associated with a certain politician.

That said it is NOT our national anthem and there is no formal reason to stand when the song is played. If one chooses to stand that’s fine but nobody should be disappointed or stunned if someone chooses not to stand.

As far as the Pledge goes, all who are able should stand in my opinion.


The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

[jmpalladino]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

Last time I checked, this is a free country, this is not about respect, it is about what someone else belives everyone else must do. Is this America or China? Think about what you said OP.

[bp243]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

It seems American to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. That’s the one thing in our country that should be apolitical. Love when people stand together as a country despite their other beliefs, particularly in support of our servicemen.

[threeonemiles@outlook.com]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?
I stand for the flag and kneel for God. It doesn't matter to me if you stand or not stand for the Pledge. I do because it's how I feel about America, but you have a choice. The song is nice but it's just a song. America is so disrespected around the world that even its own citizens disrespect her. Read the Bill of Rights. Many countries around the world do not give their citizens a choice.

[Marine1974]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

Try telling your feelings about not standing for the pledge of allegiance to a room full of widows or families who lost loved ones who lost their loved ones protecting your freedom.
Truly us veterans don’t need your respect. You’re only fooling yourself, not us .

[Jack Lefebvre]

Yankee

[Frankb]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

The song is actually titled “God Bless the USA”

[Marine1974]

Last time I checked, this is a free country, this is not about respect, it is about what someone else belives everyone else must do. Is this America or China? Think about what you said OP.
It is a free country because of the men and women who died defending it . Keep in mind the 20 million veterans living in the USA see you sitting during the pledge of allegiance know exactly what you’re really saying to them by sitting. By the way our military is all volunteer unlike China.

[Marine1974]

It is called freedom. Specifically freedom of choice.

We veterans don’t care if you
choose to disrespect them . We don’t need your support and know exactly what you’re all about .

[collegeref]

Really, are you a vet or
cop or “ firefighter”. Actually, were u a fan of controversial Lee.
Maybe Hayfire or Clark Barios are ashamed to play the National Anthem that I salute when played but choose to sit as you might put it stand up and hold hand next to
someone who might have been at Logan Airport calling me a baby killer. So John Dixon and 501 both play the Anthem not the fake news anthem played by the pre-mentioned Hayfire and Barios band. Thanks for bringing this up for us saluting Nam Vets.

[Singerlady]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?
It’s been ok to do whatever one wishes for the last 7 years. The rhetoric has been different, but the actions say otherwise. Sad.

[Vermilion Villager]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

Did it ever occur to you they were Canadian or from another country? :welcome:

[Marine1974]

Really enjoy Hayfire. The great thing about the USA is freedom to not stand for whatever. And in some other countries not conforming to the mob comes with a great price.
What if our all volunteer military
felt the same way as you and all chose not to serve. Are you ok with that too ?

[Mumsie]

I don’t know why people think this milk sop song should require standing for , I guess it’s one of those only in the village moments and no I never stand for it , I’m afraid to ,I might get sick on the person in front of me and I have to wonder why the pledge is being used for a bands performance , sort of like the used car dealer with the 30 flags outside proclaiming he’s proud to be an American , I’ve always stood for the national anthem and that’s it and I would only stand for the pledge in a proper setting and not for the PR stunt by some band , and I shouldn’t have to defend my post but I’ll say this I’m a Vietnam combat multi Purple Heart , multi tour paratrooper who went back with another government agency doing the same thing in Laos , and Cambodia

I’m with you, Charlie! Only in The Villages do people judge your “patriotism” by how many American flags adorn your golf cart and whether you stand for a hokey country song. I can handle all the dirty looks I receive while I remain in my seat.

[Lindaws]

Worse from young people. Do they even know our Pledge.?

[chuckpedrey]

WOW!!! Call me old fashioned if you must because I even stand and get choked up when I see our flag being raised when an American wins a gold medal at the Olympics

[Vermilion Villager]

If we all lived in China, or in North Korea, none of us would dare refuse, and we'd all keep a picture of the "dear leader" in a prominent place in our homes.
You mean like the flags the cult flies here in TV? (and no I don't mean the "un-doctored" Stars and Stripes):spoken:

[GATORBILL66]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to america when people do stand for it. It puts it as equal to the national anthem, which is an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the nation selects it to replace the national anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

you don't stand for the pledge of allegiance? Wow

[Bill14564]

It's ironic that those who yell the loudest about fighting for your freedom are also those that yell the loudest when you exercise those freedoms.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

And yet... for many decades people have stood, hand over heart, IN MASS at public gatherings and events when Kate Smith's "God Bless America" is sung. Are ALL those millions "unpatriotic" ? Certainly it is not the national Anthem, and NO ONE should be criticized for NOT standing, but Greenwood's rendition has become an "unofficial" national anthem and what harm is done if many come to their feet, or continue to sit ? The, "political posturing" by saying the pledge of allegiance to our country ? Posturing by a young child ? Posturing by a band who (if you think about it ) may just actually have a deep love of country ? Perhaps all members are veterans ? Don't know, but there are many possibilities !
Have you not seen people come to their feet at the playing of a college anthem, or at hearing a hymn like Amazing Grace ? Would those who stand, or sit, be considered "better", or "worse" Christians ? What is the REAL harm in emotionally reacting at a public entertainment, who is actually harmed ? And exactly does that indicate a lack of respect, or patriotism ? Perhaps a more accurate measure would just be the percentage of people who turn their back on the flag and anthem when presented ? The logic is missing here, we KNOW what is customary (standing in respect), but certainly there is NO flagrant disrespect for country, or God, by also reacting emotionally to many melodies !! Also, no one has the same experiences, but, I HAVE seen people (truckers in this case) going down the highway and saluting a passing flag. I did not, and do not, judge them disrespectful or non-patriotic for that ! Have also seen many salute the flag covering a casket, including my father's.

There's no harm in choosing to stand for a song, just as there's no harm in choosing to sit for it. Americans have that freedom of choice - we are not obligated by law to stand for the Pledge, the Anthem, or Oh MacDonald Had a Farm. We can sit, or lay down, or kneel, or walk away, or turn our backs. That is what our military fights for - that freedom of choice.

That is the POINT of those songs and pledges. To express that - thanks to our ancestors and the Founding Fathers, we have that freedom of choice.

Anyone who has a problem with me not standing for any of these things, has a problem with the freedom of choice. You can consider it tacky to not stand. And I can consider you unpatriotic for criticizing it.

A patriot embraces the freedoms that we have. That includes the freedom to NOT stand for the pledge or the National Anthem when they're not presented at the appropriate times.

PS I also don't kneel for the cross. I'm not christian, Jews kneel before god, and no one else.

[Dantes]

Where did America go where exactly where the people wanted it to go socialist communism my opinion

[louie34]

If you don't respect our country more than that, why don't you leave???

[Slakeforest]

Sad that you need the government to define what is patriotic and what is not. Apparantly, this person can't think for themselves. Sad....

[Indydealmaker]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

No surprises here!

[jscocco]

We better do something very soon to UNITE this country for our freedoms or just kiss them goodbye.

[Johnsocat]

Hmmm. Recital of the Pledge of Allegiance is viewed as a PR stunt and thus people refused to show their Allegiance?
They used to recite The Pledge before the school day started every day. Done to instill patriotism.
Perhaps we need a reminder of what it means to be a citizen and be a member of this Republic that so many have sacrificed themselves to preserve. Our veterans are not the only ones who have made sacrifices... many citizens have fought for rights of citizens as well, i.e. abolition of slavery, civil rights, rights to vote, women's rights.
Our Republic is not perfect, but in my opinion, it has helped create the only Nation in the world I want to call home.
So, what is wrong with showing a little patriotism? Is it really to much to ask for to expect (you do have the right to refuse) our citizens to show a little respect and remind us that we owe a little Allegiance to this great Nation?
Says a lot about American citizens today.

[Vermilion Villager]

It's ironic that those who yell the loudest about fighting for your freedom are also those that yell the loudest when you exercise those freedoms.

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause:

[Vermilion Villager]

Where did America go where exactly where the people wanted it to go socialist communism my opinion

You do know that socialism and communism are two different things....right????
Under socialism, all citizens share equally in economic resources as allocated by a democratically-elected government. Example: Social Security and Medicare.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Hmmm. Recital of the Pledge of Allegiance is viewed as a PR stunt and thus people refused to show their Allegiance?
They used to recite The Pledge before the school day started every day. Done to instill patriotism.
Perhaps we need a reminder of what it means to be a citizen and be a member of this Republic that so many have sacrificed themselves to preserve. Our veterans are not the only ones who have made sacrifices... many citizens have fought for rights of citizens as well, i.e. abolition of slavery, civil rights, rights to vote, women's rights.
Our Republic is not perfect, but in my opinion, it has helped create the only Nation in the world I want to call home.
So, what is wrong with showing a little patriotism? Is it really to much to ask for to expect (you do have the right to refuse) our citizens to show a little respect and remind us that we owe a little Allegiance to this great Nation?
Says a lot about American citizens today.

The pledge of allegiance at elementary schools was recited to promote conformity, not patriotism. Most 1st graders have no idea what it even means. They don't know what a Republic is, they don't understand what "allegiance" means, they're still working on addition and subtraction and wouldn't know what indivisible means, what liberty or justice is, and who comprises this "all" who gets that liberty and justice.

They don't even learn the history of the pledge itself til around Junior High (middle school). There's nothing wrong with the pledge first thing after the bell in school, I'm fine with that. It's a good way to instill discipline and group cooperation in kids, when they're all reciting the same thing at the same time. But they could just as easily recite a Mother Goose rhyme and it'd have the same effect.

I stand for the pledge, when it's appropriate to recite it, or when there is a specific need to recite it. Such as the group I volunteer for, they're mostly dementia patients. Routine, a "thing to grasp onto" in reality - is incredibly important to them. And many of them are veterans. I'll stand for them, to show them that they aren't alone in their minds, that we are all participating together. But that is WHY I'm standing for the pledge during that time. It has nothing to do with patriotism. It has to do with being humane toward a group of people I care very much about.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Hmmm. Recital of the Pledge of Allegiance is viewed as a PR stunt and thus people refused to show their Allegiance?
They used to recite The Pledge before the school day started every day. Done to instill patriotism.
Perhaps we need a reminder of what it means to be a citizen and be a member of this Republic that so many have sacrificed themselves to preserve. Our veterans are not the only ones who have made sacrifices... many citizens have fought for rights of citizens as well, i.e. abolition of slavery, civil rights, rights to vote, women's rights.
Our Republic is not perfect, but in my opinion, it has helped create the only Nation in the world I want to call home.
So, what is wrong with showing a little patriotism? Is it really to much to ask for to expect (you do have the right to refuse) our citizens to show a little respect and remind us that we owe a little Allegiance to this great Nation?
Says a lot about American citizens today. it’s a PR stunt when some band decides to bring out a 7 year old child to recite the pledge , it’s a free country , but in my eyes it just cheapens the whole meaning of the pledge

[nhtexasrn]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.
Well,,,,,,,aren't you just a delight.

[Boffin]

Freedom and pariotism do not require symbols, songs, gestures, postures, behaviors, or spoken and written words.

[MandoMan]

I am a proud veteran, love my country, served in a war, member of the American Legion, and a volunteer for Honor Flight. I feel I am a true patriot. I will proudly stand for the pledge and the national anthem, but I do not make a special effort to stand for the Lee Greenwood song. I was eating dinner once in the bowling alley restaurant in Spanish Springs when karaoke was going on, and the DJ played the Lee Greenwood song and expected everyone to stand. I did not. I got some stink-eye looks from neighboring tables, but I won't be intimidated by anyone. There are any number of patriotic songs that can be played. Only the national anthem deserves special respect.

Having worked overseas for three years, I can fairly say I love America, and I don’t every want to live elsewhere again. I do think that in the Free State of Florida, our constitutional freedoms are being eroded week by week, and that worries me. I also love living in The Villages. I stand and cover my heart and happily say the Pledge of Allegiance at appropriate times, but some concert is not an appropriate time. I wish “God Bless America” we’re our national anthem, or “This Land Was Made for You and Me,” but I stand and cover my heart because it’s appropriate, and I love my country, and I’m grateful to live here. But I’ve never heard of being expected to stand for some Lee Greenwood song. I also never wear a cap in the house or a restaurant. To me that’s just bad manners.

[JMintzer]

I went back and read it. I don't see a clarification between the girl singing and the song. What's your reason to attack me? Because I view different?

See Post #26...

And you saw my response as an attack? Wow...

It was a simple response... No malice implied nor intended...

[JMintzer]

I don't understand why the Pledge is used at so many functions that have nothing to do with loyalty to the U.S. The pledge and song represent the freedom of a country where you should have the right / freedom to say the pledge or not and sit or stand for the song at your choosing. Why do you feel someone owes 'duty' to this country just because they were born here? There are also religious references in the Pledge as well. How do you think a Muslim, Hindu or atheist feel spouting loyalty to 'One Nation Under God'? If this country is going to Demand loyalty from everyone who is born here, then its not the country of Freedom that the pledge and song are about.

What does being a Hindu, Muslim or atheist have to do with anything?

And atheist can simply leave out the "under god" portion. Muslims and Hindus have a god, last time I checked...

I'm Jewish, the Pledge of Allegiance doesn't name any specific god to me...

As far as those who become naturalized citizens go, they most certainly pledge allegiance when they take their citizenship oaths...

[JMintzer]

It’s a great song and has been long before it now seems to be associated with a certain politician.

That said it is NOT our national anthem and there is no formal reason to stand when the song is played. If one chooses to stand that’s fine but nobody should be disappointed or stunned if someone chooses not to stand.

As far as the Pledge goes, all who are able should stand in my opinion.

Which was the point of the original post...

[JMintzer]

Did it ever occur to you they were Canadian or from another country? :welcome:

Yes, because they far outnumber the US Citizens in TV...

[JMintzer]

You mean like the flags the cult flies here in TV? (and no I don't mean the "un-doctored" Stars and Stripes):spoken:

The hate is strong with you...

[JMintzer]

There's no harm in choosing to stand for a song, just as there's no harm in choosing to sit for it. Americans have that freedom of choice - we are not obligated by law to stand for the Pledge, the Anthem, or Oh MacDonald Had a Farm. We can sit, or lay down, or kneel, or walk away, or turn our backs. That is what our military fights for - that freedom of choice.

That is the POINT of those songs and pledges. To express that - thanks to our ancestors and the Founding Fathers, we have that freedom of choice.

Anyone who has a problem with me not standing for any of these things, has a problem with the freedom of choice. You can consider it tacky to not stand. And I can consider you unpatriotic for criticizing it.

A patriot embraces the freedoms that we have. That includes the freedom to NOT stand for the pledge or the National Anthem when they're not presented at the appropriate times.

PS I also don't kneel for the cross. I'm not christian, Jews kneel before god, and no one else.

Last time I checks, we don't kneel at all...

[miadford@gmail.com]

Instead of being so “against” something such as this, why don’t you join in sometime to just show pride in your country. That is what they were doing. I don’t think they told anyone to stand up, it’s just a show of pride for the country they all live in. No one said they were trying to replace anything.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Instead of being so “against” something such as this, why don’t you join in sometime to just show pride in your country. That is what they were doing. I don’t think they told anyone to stand up, it’s just a show of pride for the country they all live in. No one said they were trying to replace anything.
Excuse me but the op said it was stunning to see people who remained seated and didn’t show any respect, where has American pride gone , thus casting all those who didn’t stand as having no pride in America , his message seemed to me very clear if your not with us your against us , but it’s a free country so you can have your patriotic moment listening to that milk sop song and feel good about yourself while shaming those closet commies that sat in there chair ,personally for me all those years in that Southeast Asian War ) , the 2 songs that got me up on my feet were All Along the Watchtower, the Jimi Hendrix version and the Stones Sympathy for the Devil now that’s an anthem

[stewiegal]

Should have been the national anthem

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

[Tvflguy]

It so saddens me how so many in this great country take so much for granted. Especially much of the youth and the complainers.

A great President once said “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we lose our freedoms it will be because we have destroyed ourselves from within" - Abraham Lincoln.

Patriotism should be a glue to our freedom. What’s wrong with showing it stating it at every opportunity???

I’m very afraid of the divisions and lack of some unity in our country. Our enemies are becoming stronger. Our freedom is fragile, as well as our country.

So many take so much for granted and it’s troubling.

[fdpaq0580]

Excuse me but the op said it was stunning to see people who remained seated and didn’t show any respect, where has American pride gone , thus casting all those who didn’t stand as having no pride in America , his message seemed to me very clear if your not with us your against us , but it’s a free country so you can have your patriotic moment listening to that milk sop song and feel good about yourself while shaming those closet commies that sat in there chair ,personally for me all those years in that Southeast Asian War ) , the 2 songs that got me up on my feet were All Along the Watchtower, the Jimi Hendrix version and the Stones Sympathy for the Devil now that’s an anthem

All along the watchtower and Stairway to Heaven! Just my opinion.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I’ll tell you are little story about so called true patriotic people , waving the flag for truth and justice . My father had been a f union organizer during the 1930’S he was on many picket lines in the country and had been beaten and arrested by many so called special deputized police who were just strike breaking thugs , he also went to Spain to fight against Franco and his German Allies , when ww2 broke out he joined the army and parachuted into Normandy with the 101ST airborne when he came back he was with the national union , he was thrown out of his position during the McCarthy hearings and branded a communist by a bunch of flag waving patriots , he’s was never a communists but he did welcome there help in the 30’s ,my father was never bitter about it for himself he still had his iron working card but he was angry at all the people whose lives were ruined by the defense of so called freedom , I see some of the same things happening now if your not with us your a bad American that’s helping to ruin America.I say the same thing to all the patriots who claim America is being destroyed by people who don’t love America that was said to McCarthy I remember what Joseph Welch said when Joe attacked one of Welches young attorneys as a communist there’s a long version but , you have done enough sir , have you no sense of decency , so yes I do get upset when people use the flag to divide us into for or against , I’ve been in wars , rebellions, , civil wars and covert wars all over the world for most of 40 years I don’t see black and white I see grey not everyone is right or wrong

[DonH57]

See Post #26...

And you saw my response as an attack? Wow...

It was a simple response... No malice implied nor intended...

I don't waste time counting and rereading posts. What was the point of the OP of bringing up the song in the first place if it wasn't about that? Why mention the song?

[fdpaq0580]

The hate is strong with you...

Finish the line, "young Skywalker! Release your anger and turn to the dark side." Or something like that.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Last time I checks, we don't kneel at all...

That's kinda the point. And the reason we don't kneel during our mortal lives. We'll kneel when we meet god.

[Pairadocs]

Freedom and pariotism do not require symbols, songs, gestures, postures, behaviors, or spoken and written words.

Agreed, don't "require", however, ALL societies, civilized to undeveloped have symbols of their CULTURE. The USA has many such symbols. It does not appear that most posts on this site are refuting that symbols exist at all, or that freedom does exist outside "symbols". Seems a circular argument to me ? A more valuable discussion, and more interesting, might be how various people define and understand "freedom" and "tyranny". Not sure many schools even concentrate on the importance of making sure future adult citizens thoroughly understand those terms at all, and from the comments I see in other on line posting sites, many do not realize the why it is more important to allow others to speak freely their opinions, even if shockingly bigoted, than to attempt to silence all opposition. READ history, it has never worked, never. Only appears to do so for a limited time, but not ultimately.

[fdpaq0580]

That's kinda the point. And the reason we don't kneel during our mortal lives. We'll kneel when we meet god.

😊 If you say so.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

It so saddens me how so many in this great country take so much for granted. Especially much of the youth and the complainers.

A great President once said “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we lose our freedoms it will be because we have destroyed ourselves from within" - Abraham Lincoln.

Patriotism should be a glue to our freedom. What’s wrong with showing it stating it at every opportunity???

I’m very afraid of the divisions and lack of some unity in our country. Our enemies are becoming stronger. Our freedom is fragile, as well as our country.

So many take so much for granted and it’s troubling.

I show my patriotism when I vote. I vote whenever I'm eligible to do so. I exercise my responsibility as a patriotic American citizen, by casting a ballot. And I proudly display the "I voted" sticker on my golf cart, my car, or the back of my cell phone (depending on if the old one needs replacing).

I even have one on my printer.

I am not a yahoo patriot. Patriotism doesn't need to be demanded, required, obligated. It's not a debt owed that must be paid. You either love your country or you don't. You can love your country and still be critical of it. As seen in this thread. Many of us have criticisms of our government, the decisions made on our behalf, on our own neighbors' decisions - that doesn't mean we don't love our country. And - all those people who complain about US - the ones who have these criticisms - well you're complaining about US citizens who exercise their right and duty to vote - one of the most sacred rituals we have available to use to demonstrate our patriotism.

How patriotic are YOU (editorial you not you, Tvflguy), to criticize us? The same thing you say to us (if you don't like it, you can always leave the country) applies to you. That's what freedom is all about. You can stay, you can go. You can criticize, you can compliment. You can stand, you can sit. You can recite, you can refrain. These are the freedoms our veterans fought for. I personally am grateful for these freedoms and the ability to actually exercise them, and not feel shamed into doing anything else.

[Pairadocs]

I stand for the flag and kneel for God. It doesn't matter to me if you stand or not stand for the Pledge. I do because it's how I feel about America, but you have a choice. The song is nice but it's just a song. America is so disrespected around the world that even its own citizens disrespect her. Read the Bill of Rights. Many countries around the world do not give their citizens a choice.

So well said. If you check various "comments" on other on line forums, like various villages on line news papers...not the articles themselves, but the "comments", it is VERY clear a frightening percentage of people have NO idea what the Bill of Rights even is, no idea of what the U.S. Constitution even is, can not tell you what form of government we even have, can not explain the differences in a democracy and a democratic republic, can not tell you the difference in fascism (a term throw around recklessly these days), communism, and socialism, and can't give you a an alternative to capitalism as a viable financial system. That SHOULD frighten people of all political parties, but it doesn't. We are making a HUGE mistake dropping the emphasis on civics education and history, a huge mistake dropping our emphasis on mandatory education in our country, and a huge mistake by allowing our literacy rate to continue to decline. Call me chicken little, but this is not a winning trend.

[Escape Artist]

"proud to be an american" is not a nationally recognized official song for this country and it's an insult to America when people DO stand for it. It puts it as equal to the National Anthem, which IS an officially recognized song of this country.

Just like you don't stand and salute the flag of Iowa when someone drives down the road with that flag poking up from their golf cart, or when someone sings Kumbaya.

I will not stand for that song until/unless the Nation selects it to replace the National Anthem.

As for the pledge of allegiance, it seems to be political posturing to recite it before a musical entertainment show and degrades the significance of it.

I wouldn't stand then, either.

Right! And I wouldn’t stand for the “black national anthem” either. These are just agenda-driven songs that seek to further divide us.

[Geodyssey]

It is a free country because of the men and women who died defending it . Keep in mind the 20 million veterans living in the USA see you sitting during the pledge of allegiance know exactly what you’re really saying to them by sitting. By the way our military is all volunteer unlike China.

I'm a vet and I don't stand for the pledge. And I dispise the insipid Lee Greenwood song, always did.

I'll only stand for National Anthem. If in a foreign country I'll stand for their anthem if th locals stand.

US has an all-volunteer military... for now. Wait 'til the usual suspects start a war with China, (over what exactly?) Who is willing to die for LGBTQ+ and Taiwan?

BTW, the US & NATO are losing badly in the ukraine. Do not believe US/UK propaganda. And some want a 3-front war with Iran & China. It will not go well.

[golfing eagles]

You do know that socialism and communism are two different things....right????
Under socialism, all citizens share equally in economic resources as allocated by a democratically-elected government. Example: Social Security and Medicare.

Correct, until they run out of OTHER PEOPLE'S money

[gbs317]

There was no Christian right back in the mid 50's, rather the Under god was added by the power of the Knights of Columbus as a way to promote their view of how we should differ from "godless" Communism. It was during the peak of McCarthyism and blacklists and checking for Commies under your bed that we got the additional verbiage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOWKmCxyh_8

Maybe this link will give you a better understanding of adding “under God”

[Bilyclub]

The fiddle player from the Greg Warren Band played the National Anthem during his solo last week at Brownwood and everybody stood, as they should have.

[JMintzer]

Excuse me but the op said it was stunning to see people who remained seated and didn’t show any respect, where has American pride gone , thus casting all those who didn’t stand as having no pride in America , his message seemed to me very clear if your not with us your against us , but it’s a free country so you can have your patriotic moment listening to that milk sop song and feel good about yourself while shaming those closet commies that sat in there chair ,personally for me all those years in that Southeast Asian War ) , the 2 songs that got me up on my feet were All Along the Watchtower, the Jimi Hendrix version and the Stones Sympathy for the Devil now that’s an anthem

Once again... It's not about the song!

Honestly, does anyone bother to read the threads anymore?

[JMintzer]

I don't waste time counting and rereading posts. What was the point of the OP of bringing up the song in the first place if it wasn't about that? Why mention the song?

It's not about "counting posts"... I was directing you to the actual post where he clarified what he was talking about. Every post has a # by it, identifying it's place in the thread...

Why mention the song? I don't know, maybe to paint a picture about what was going on that night... You know, "A little girl led the crowd in saying the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a Lee Greenwood song"...

This isn't rocket surgery...

[JMintzer]

That's kinda the point. And the reason we don't kneel during our mortal lives. We'll kneel when we meet god.

I've never in my life heard that...

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Once again... It's not about the song!

Honestly, does anyone bother to read the threads anymore?
You can say that till you get tired but yes I read it but you always No everything so I guess your reading ability is far superior to mine

[JMintzer]

You can say that till you get tired but yes I read it but you always No everything so I guess your reading ability is far superior to mine

Far from me to argue with you...

[fdpaq0580]

Once again... It's not about the song!

Honestly, does anyone bother to read the threads anymore?

Reading only slows down posting. Just like your 10,000 steps, gotta get your 10,000 words.
Next!

[fdpaq0580]

This isn't rocket surgery...

Shur it are! In'it?

[collegeref]

That song made millions for a 4 (F)(S)
whatever. Clark B plays it also. By the way John Dixon and 501 bands play the real thing and I
go into salute mode.

Sit mode tonight at SS

[Byte1]

In Vietnam, I was privileged/grateful to be in the rear area where I was patched up before returning me to the boonies to fight another day. While back there, I had the chance to attend one of the many USO shows put on for the troops. One of the favorite songs performed was the "Green, green grass of home." Everyone that could stand was standing and cheering and singing along for that song. If standing emotionally for a favorite song bothers someone's sensitivity in this country, then it makes one wonder just how spoiled and elitist or how forgetful some are in this country. Sit quietly if you feel like it. That's fine. Insult those that are emotional if you wish. All you are doing is belittling yourself, because some of us are proud of our country and admire the patriots that support this country in any way they can at the time. Some can't stand, but I bet they would if they could. Especially, most of us seniors. I don't stand in my living room for the national anthem on TV, because I don't need to "show" my support there. I "show" my support to encourage others to be proud of what this country offers us and what Freedom is like and to be grateful for it. A saying which has been mutilated or morphed many times goes like this: For those that fight for it, Freedom (or liberty) has a flavor that the protected will never taste (or know). I stand for my country and bow to GOD, and I am grateful for the Grace of both. Disgrace either at your own peril, because in the long run, you are only hurting yourself.
Edit:
Oh, and I will always STAND for the Pledge of Allegiance to our FLAG. Regardless of whom or when it is recited. Sorry, if my being emotional and proud of my country bothers some, that's not my problem.....it's theirs. I stood proudly to witness many of my wife's family get their citizenship. And it really means a lot to me when I see foreign born volunteer to fight for this great country.

[collegeref]

Coming soon, it's OVER! :sad:

Do you mean like over there / over there the yanks are coming was it GG/Cagney

[joelfmi]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?Although a small amount of people have been under protest of the Pledge of Allegiance for many years, the beginning of the new wave of controversy most recently started with Colin Kaepernick. A former NFL football player, Kaepernick was exposed under the attention of national news after he knelt during the national anthem at the start of a NFL game to protest his beliefs that police brutality and racial inequality black and white in the United States. This is the most common reason to protest the Pledge. Overall, those who protest the pledge do so for the reason of political protest. Although many continue their respect for the country, they use their actions as a symbol of criticism of the actions done in order to protect the rights of every citizen. Since Kaepernick’s actions, many people have used sitting for the pledge or national anthem as their way to demonstrate that they are in a peaceful protest to this country’s actions.
Those who stand for the Pledge say it is to honor those who have died in war and where crippled; they feel that soldiers are given respect with these actions. Overall, the act of standing and reciting the pledge is a symbol for the united nation of America, regardless of political beliefs. When talking about the matter of justice, the act of standing is a salute to the idea that America gives the opportunity of justice. In addition, many people who are considered more conservative use the pledge to show their allegiance, as the pledge says itself, to the United States of America. I believe that every American should show respect for our men and women soldiers by standing. Not doing so is disrespectful. And must stop.

[collegeref]

I am a proud veteran, love my country, served in a war, member of the American Legion, and a volunteer for Honor Flight. I feel I am a true patriot. I will proudly stand for the pledge and the national anthem, but I do not make a special effort to stand for the Lee Greenwood song. I was eating dinner once in the bowling alley restaurant in Spanish Springs when karaoke was going on, and the DJ played the Lee Greenwood song and expected everyone to stand. I did not. I got some stink-eye looks from neighboring tables, but I won't be intimidated by anyone. There are any number of patriotic songs that can be played. Only the national anthem deserves special respect.

Maybe the DJ was a college professor moonlighting as a DJ

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I believe that every American should show respect for our men and women soldiers by standing. Not doing so is disrespectful. And must stop.

Your belief is based on faulty logic.

The soldiers fought and died for our FREEDOM to stand or sit, as we please. Freedom of assembly, freedom of speech, are rights guaranteed to us by our government. As such, we have the right to -not- stand or pledge our allegiance to any flag, whether it be of the United States of America or Zimbabwe. We are not obligated to do that, and exercising our freedom to choose is exactly WHY we had soldiers in the first place.

Rejecting those freedoms and shaming people who exercise the very thing those soldiers fought to protect our right to do, is disrespectful.

[PugMom]

Really enjoy Hayfire. The great thing about the USA is freedom to not stand for whatever. And in some other countries not conforming to the mob comes with a great price.

:BigApplause::highfive: thank you!

[Geodyssey]

...I believe that every American should show respect for our men and women soldiers by standing. Not doing so is disrespectful. And must stop.

Is there an "or else" attached to that "must"?

I won't stand for the P.o.A. marketing scam. Only stand for the Anthem.

The pedge is the poetry version of the statue of liberty.

[golfing eagles]

Although a small amount of people have been under protest of the Pledge of Allegiance for many years, the beginning of the new wave of controversy most recently started with Colin Kaepernick. A former NFL football player, Kaepernick was exposed under the attention of national news after he knelt during the national anthem at the start of a NFL game to protest his beliefs that police brutality and racial inequality black and white in the United States. This is the most common reason to protest the Pledge. Overall, those who protest the pledge do so for the reason of political protest. Although many continue their respect for the country, they use their actions as a symbol of criticism of the actions done in order to protect the rights of every citizen. Since Kaepernick’s actions, many people have used sitting for the pledge or national anthem as their way to demonstrate that they are in a peaceful protest to this country’s actions.
Those who stand for the Pledge say it is to honor those who have died in war and where crippled; they feel that soldiers are given respect with these actions. Overall, the act of standing and reciting the pledge is a symbol for the united nation of America, regardless of political beliefs. When talking about the matter of justice, the act of standing is a salute to the idea that America gives the opportunity of justice. In addition, many people who are considered more conservative use the pledge to show their allegiance, as the pledge says itself, to the United States of America. I believe that every American should show respect for our men and women soldiers by standing. Not doing so is disrespectful. And must stop.

Agree 1000%. And Kaepernick is a SPOS. While most people do not know what that stands for, the rules of this forum as well as decorum prevents me from spelling it out.

[JGibson]

Although a small amount of people have been under protest of the Pledge of Allegiance for many years, the beginning of the new wave of controversy most recently started with Colin Kaepernick. A former NFL football player, Kaepernick was exposed under the attention of national news after he knelt during the national anthem at the start of a NFL game to protest his beliefs that police brutality and racial inequality black and white in the United States. This is the most common reason to protest the Pledge. Overall, those who protest the pledge do so for the reason of political protest. Although many continue their respect for the country, they use their actions as a symbol of criticism of the actions done in order to protect the rights of every citizen. Since Kaepernick’s actions, many people have used sitting for the pledge or national anthem as their way to demonstrate that they are in a peaceful protest to this country’s actions.
Those who stand for the Pledge say it is to honor those who have died in war and where crippled; they feel that soldiers are given respect with these actions. Overall, the act of standing and reciting the pledge is a symbol for the united nation of America, regardless of political beliefs. When talking about the matter of justice, the act of standing is a salute to the idea that America gives the opportunity of justice. In addition, many people who are considered more conservative use the pledge to show their allegiance, as the pledge says itself, to the United States of America. I believe that every American should show respect for our men and women soldiers by standing. Not doing so is disrespectful. And must stop.

It's amazing how gullible people are and how the carry lies for years.

Kaepernick wasn't protesting police brutality or any social justice, he was pouting about being benched for a White man.

He didn't want to look like a cry baby so he quickly pivoted to social justice so he didn't look like an immature child.

He wasn't even kneeling at first he was sitting on the bench and a military guy told him kneeling would be more appropriate.

So it began another one of the biggest hoaxes of all time.

It reminds me of folks who still believe "hands up don't shoot" actually happened. Even a certain Commander believed that hoax. Which only fueled the fake situation.

No wonder so many people in TV get scammed, they don't question anything.

[I'm Popeye!]

Do you mean like over there / over there the yanks are coming was it GG/Cagney

More like "Game Over," there will be no true "Patriot" Yanks this time to rescue us. The "rainbow sickos" have done enough damage for others to invade the freedom we have sadly abused...

[I'm Popeye!]

Can't I just go to a show and not have to deal with this stuff?

Do you mean like the Half-Time show at a Superbowl FOOTBALL game?

[I'm Popeye!]

A That is what our military fights for - that freedom of choice.

That is the POINT of those songs and pledges. To express that - thanks to our ancestors and the Founding Fathers, we have that freedom of choice.



What have YOU done to continue this FREEDOM in America instead of you sitting there with your constant negative comments about the land supposedly you were born in, Miss OrangeBlossomBaby?
Well, wait for your written accomplishments...:read:

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

What have YOU done to continue this FREEDOM in America instead of you sitting there with your constant negative comments about the land supposedly you were born in, Miss OrangeBlossomBaby?
Well, wait for your written accomplishments...:read:

It's none of your business. And thanks to this great country, I have the right to that bit of privacy.

[golfing eagles]

It's none of your business. And thanks to this great country, I have the right to that bit of privacy.

You have a right to privacy
You have the freedom to sit for the Pledge of Allegiance
But......just because you have that right, doesn't make it the right thing to do.

[JMintzer]

You have a right to privacy
You have the freedom to sit for the Pledge of Allegiance
But......just because you have that right, doesn't make it the right thing to do.

As SWMBO always says, "Just because you CAN do something, doesn't mean you SHOULD..."

[Boomer]

it’s a PR stunt when some band decides to bring out a 7 year old child to recite the pledge , it’s a free country , but in my eyes it just cheapens the whole meaning of the pledge


Hey, charlieo, I agree with you.

I, too, see that intro routine as a marketing ploy, pandering to their presumed TV market, made up mostly of those who lean and thrive on the division in this country. The child should have been left out of it.

Mr. Boomer and I stand for the pledge and for the Star Spangled Banner, BUT about that “Proud to be an American” song………

That song has been around forever, but in the past several years, it has been turned into an anthem, and in a way, the battle cry, for those who lean far in a certain direction.

I am happy to hear that there were those in that audience who did not feel intimidated into standing up for that Greenwood song. Those who did not stand knew exactly what was going on and did not choose to be a part of the cult-behavior that has seized our nation and is only getting worse.

To me, standing for THAT song which is NOT our National Anthem is in the same clueless category as defacing our beloved flag by plastering an image of a well-known face right across the middle of “Old Glory” and thinking that is patriotic…….

Btw, in case anyone reading this is all set to call me the names that have been so easily programmed in and ready to spew……..well, that would be off.

And, just for the record, Mr. Boomer’s background is military - Army SF, Green Beret — and he would not stand for that fake “Proud to be an American” anthem either. We know how divisive that song has become — and so did those people being judged by their “sitting” — and many of them could be just plain moderates who use their own critical thinking skills and refuse to be manipulated…….and who are very concerned about the road this country is headed down.

:boom:er (“It once was my party and I’ll cry if I want to”) Seeya.

[JMintzer]

Hey, charlieo, I agree with you.

I, too, see that intro routine as a marketing ploy, pandering to their presumed TV market, made up mostly of those who lean and thrive on the division in this country. The child should have been left out of it.

Mr. Boomer and I stand for the pledge and for the Star Spangled Banner, BUT about that “Proud to be an American” song………

That song has been around forever, but in the past several years, it has been turned into an anthem, and in a way, the battle cry, for those who lean far in a certain direction.

I am happy to hear that there were those in that audience who did not feel intimidated into standing up for that Greenwood song. Those who did not stand knew exactly what was going on and did not choose to be a part of the cult-behavior that has seized our nation and is only getting worse.

To me, standing for THAT song which is NOT our National Anthem is in the same clueless category as defacing our beloved flag by plastering an image of a well-known face right across the middle of “Old Glory” and thinking that is patriotic…….

Btw, in case anyone reading this is all set to call me the names that have been so easily programmed in and ready to spew……..well, that would be off.

And, just for the record, Mr. Boomer’s background is military - Army SF, Green Beret — and he would not stand for that fake “Proud to be an American” anthem either. We know how divisive that song has become — and so did those people being judged by their “sitting” — and many of them could be just plain moderates who use their own critical thinking skills and refuse to be manipulated…….and who are very concerned about the road this country is headed down.

:boom:er (“It once was my party and I’ll cry if I want to”) Seeya.

Nice rant...

Except the thread was never about standing for THAT song...

I won't even respond to the political nonsense...

[rustyp]

Hey, charlieo, I agree with you.

I, too, see that intro routine as a marketing ploy, pandering to their presumed TV market, made up mostly of those who lean and thrive on the division in this country. The child should have been left out of it.


I agree. The pledge of allegiance has a part that the reciter hand over heart is committing to by oath ---- one nation under God - INDIVISIBLE with liberty ----- I walked into City Fire with gold colored "united we stand" cap on. Big mistake. Who are the hypocrites the ones standing taking a pledge they do not live by daily or the ones that remained seated ?

[Johnsocat]

Your belief is based on faulty logic.

The soldiers fought and died for our FREEDOM to stand or sit, as we please. Freedom of assembly, freedom of speech, are rights guaranteed to us by our government. As such, we have the right to -not- stand or pledge our allegiance to any flag, whether it be of the United States of America or Zimbabwe. We are not obligated to do that, and exercising our freedom to choose is exactly WHY we had soldiers in the first place.

Rejecting those freedoms and shaming people who exercise the very thing those soldiers fought to protect our right to do, is disrespectful.

Faulty logic. As a veteran who served 24 years and was born, grew up and went to school on military installations, I can guarantee you that, although you are free to disrespect our nation, that is absolutely NOT what A SINGLE troop I have served with believed they were fighting "for" you to directly have the "right" to disrespect them and their service.

What does it say about a group of Americans who can't get excited, for whatever reason or occasion, about expressing their love and pride of country???
Maybe, you (generic you) are the proof that, at this point, it simply isn't worth saving.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Faulty logic. As a veteran who served 24 years and was born, grew up and went to school on military installations, I can guarantee you that, although you are free to disrespect our nation, that is absolutely NOT what A SINGLE troop I have served with believed they were fighting "for" you to directly have the "right" to disrespect them and their service.

What does it say about a group of Americans who can't get excited, for whatever reason or occasion, about expressing their love and pride of country???
Maybe, you (generic you) are the proof that, at this point, it simply isn't worth saving.

Being disrespectful to "our nation" - I'm not the one leaving cigarette butts on the ground. I'm not the one polluting the ocean with nuclear waste. I'm not the one digging into our planet to mine coal. I'm not the one digging up beautiful wildlife and nature and exchanging it for apartments and housing for people who already have a home somewhere else.

Choosing to remain seated when a child is exploited by a bunch of adult yahoos in a sorry attempt to draw attention to how patriotic they are - is not "disrespecting" anyone.

[I'm Popeye!]

It's none of your business. And thanks to this great country, I have the right to that bit of privacy.
//////
I'm Deleting this post; if not, it would have probably kicked me off this place. :rolleyes:
Miss OrangeTyphoneLady, you get a pass this time. :police:

[coralway]

Do you mean like the Half-Time show at a Superbowl FOOTBALL game?




Yes, just like that. Incidentally, the most recent Super Bowl half time show was the most watched half-time show in SB history. Obviously, millions of folks enjoyed it very much.

[Taltarzac725]

Yes, just like that. Incidentally, the most recent Super Bowl half time show was the most watched half-time show in SB history. Obviously, millions of folks enjoyed it very much.

The Super Bowl Half Time shows are marketed for teens to thirty somethings and some older people. Not really to those 55 and older except for those of us who are young at heart. Even though I have met many Villagers who often act more like teens than most teens do. Especially the quite grown up teens here in the Villages.

[fdpaq0580]

Yes, just like that. Incidentally, the most recent Super Bowl half time show was the most watched half-time show in SB history. Obviously, millions of folks enjoyed it very much.

Nah! Most were in the kitchen or BBQ getting food ready for the second half while talking about the first half. Only Uncle Ned wasn't in the kitchen at our house. The chocolate Cootie Clusters auntie wuzzy made gave him the .... um, the geysers (if you catch my drift

[PersonOfInterest]

Why is it necessary to have the Pledge and/or national anthem at club meetings, entertainment and sports events? Do you really care if all the people there are patriotic or not? Those standing can be unpatriotic and you'd never know it and those sitting could be just as patriotic as you, But what does it matter? Are you there for entertainment or meeting or sports event or are you there to see if everyone there is patriotic?

There are articles about 'American soldiers returning home from Vietnam who often faced scorn as the war they had fought in became increasingly unpopular.' Do you think those people treating the Vietnam vets in that manner were 'Sitting' for the Pledge or national anthem? Some of you proudly standing may have been among them.

How a person really feels about this country and those who fought for it is not always shown by the symbolism of standing.

[mickey100]

Why is it necessary to have the Pledge and/or national anthem at club meetings, entertainment and sports events? Do you really care if all the people there are patriotic or not? Those standing can be unpatriotic and you'd never know it and those sitting could be just as patriotic as you, But what does it matter? Are you there for entertainment or meeting or sports event or are you there to see if everyone there is patriotic?

There are articles about 'American soldiers returning home from Vietnam who often faced scorn as the war they had fought in became increasingly unpopular.' Do you think those people treating the Vietnam vets in that manner were 'Sitting' for the Pledge or national anthem? Some of you proudly standing may have been among them.

How a person really feels about this country and those who fought for it is not always shown by the symbolism of standing.

Good common sense reply.

[Boffin]

You have a right to privacy
You have the freedom to sit for the Pledge of Allegiance
But......just because you have that right, doesn't make it the right thing to do.
Exactly what does make anything “the right thing to do?”

[Two Bills]

‘Patriotism is the Last Refuge of the Scoundrel’
SJ.

[golfing eagles]

Exactly what does make anything “the right thing to do?”

If you don't already know, it's too late for me to teach you.

[kkingston57]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

Does a person need to stand to have pride? People do stand for the PLEDGE of Allegiance.

[JMintzer]

I agree. The pledge of allegiance has a part that the reciter hand over heart is committing to by oath ---- one nation under God - INDIVISIBLE with liberty ----- I walked into City Fire with gold colored "united we stand" cap on. Big mistake. Who are the hypocrites the ones standing taking a pledge they do not live by daily or the ones that remained seated ?

You're not gonna' tell us what happened?

Why was it a "big mistake"?

[JMintzer]

Being disrespectful to "our nation" - I'm not the one leaving cigarette butts on the ground. I'm not the one polluting the ocean with nuclear waste. I'm not the one digging into our planet to mine coal. I'm not the one digging up beautiful wildlife and nature and exchanging it for apartments and housing for people who already have a home somewhere else.

Choosing to remain seated when a child is exploited by a bunch of adult yahoos in a sorry attempt to draw attention to how patriotic they are - is not "disrespecting" anyone.

Were you homeless when you move to TV?

Or, do you just want them to stop the development after YOU moved in?

[I'm Popeye!]

Yes, just like that. Incidentally, the most recent Super Bowl half time show was the most watched half-time show in SB history. Obviously, millions of folks enjoyed it very much.

You mean the most watched "Super Bowl" game, next year that record will be broken, and so on and so on... but you give the credit to the Halftime show, instead of the Commercials.. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[rustyp]

And the band announced:

Everyone please stand.
Remove your caps.
Place your right hand over your heart.
And repeat after me - where do I place my beer ?

[JMintzer]

Yes, just like that. Incidentally, the most recent Super Bowl half time show was the most watched half-time show in SB history. Obviously, millions of folks enjoyed it very much.

Except it wasn't...

Katy Perry holds that honor...

From the Google Machine:

"Which Super Bowl halftime show has the highest ratings?

Rihanna's halftime show averaged 118.7 million viewers, making it the second-most watched in Super Bowl history. Katy Perry's 2015 performance still holds the top mark at 121 million."

[JMintzer]

Why is it necessary to have the Pledge and/or national anthem at club meetings, entertainment and sports events? Do you really care if all the people there are patriotic or not? Those standing can be unpatriotic and you'd never know it and those sitting could be just as patriotic as you, But what does it matter? Are you there for entertainment or meeting or sports event or are you there to see if everyone there is patriotic?

There are articles about 'American soldiers returning home from Vietnam who often faced scorn as the war they had fought in became increasingly unpopular.' Do you think those people treating the Vietnam vets in that manner were 'Sitting' for the Pledge or national anthem? Some of you proudly standing may have been among them.

How a person really feels about this country and those who fought for it is not always shown by the symbolism of standing.

I don't believe anyone has said it is "necessary" to have either one...

The discussion is about the reaction "if" they do decide to recite, play them...

[JMintzer]

Does a person need to stand to have pride? People do stand for the PLEDGE of Allegiance.

Apparently not the night the OP was witnessing... Hence the topic of the thread...

[Taltarzac725]

True patriotism is respect for the values that made this country great. Those are the ones expressed in the Bill of Rights and other portions of the US Constitution and re-inforced by the Constitutions of each and every US State.

And is not shoddy con games by people with no respect for the US Constitution.

[Johnsocat]

Being disrespectful to "our nation" - I'm not the one leaving cigarette butts on the ground. I'm not the one polluting the ocean with nuclear waste. I'm not the one digging into our planet to mine coal. I'm not the one digging up beautiful wildlife and nature and exchanging it for apartments and housing for people who already have a home somewhere else.

Choosing to remain seated when a child is exploited by a bunch of adult yahoos in a sorry attempt to draw attention to how patriotic they are - is not "disrespecting" anyone.

What do you think that little girl thought when she saw her elders fail to rise and pay proper respect to both her and the Pledge of Allegiance?
I'm sorry, but I wholeheartedly disagree with you and your list of everything wrong with our citizens. Proper protocol upon reciting the Pledge of Allegiance is to stand, remove your hats and place it or your hand over your heart. Similar to protocols for flying a flag.
America isn't always perfect, nor the people within her, but as far as I'm concerned she's the best Nation in the world and we are blessed to be living in it.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

You mean the most watched "Super Bowl" game, next year that record will be broken, and so on and so on... but you give the credit to the Halftime show, instead of the Commercials.. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:Super Bowl 114.4 million , half time show 118. 7 million so a few extra people turned in just for her including me I saw very few commercials because I started watching later on tape didnt catch up until middle of 4th quarter timed it pretty good FYI I liked her show

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

What do you think that little girl thought when she saw her elders fail to rise and pay proper respect to both her and the Pledge of Allegiance?
I'm sorry, but I wholeheartedly disagree with you and your list of everything wrong with our citizens. Proper protocol upon reciting the Pledge of Allegiance is to stand, remove your hats and place it or your hand over your heart. Similar to protocols for flying a flag.
America isn't always perfect, nor the people within her, but as far as I'm concerned she's the best Nation in the world and we are blessed to be living in it.most people on here including me are not protesting the pledge it’s why it has to be in a setting for a rock and roll band , maybe 4th of July I could handle it but that’s it , and as far as that cloying song I would never I mean never stand up and wave my hand back in forth and did I say NEVER

[fdpaq0580]

most people on here including me are not protesting the pledge it’s why it has to be in a setting for a rock and roll band , maybe 4th of July I could handle it but that’s it , and as far as that cloying song I would never I mean never stand up and wave my hand back in forth and did I say NEVER

You mean NEVER? As in, "NEVER"?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Were you homeless when you move to TV?

Or, do you just want them to stop the development after YOU moved in?

If you had actually spent a few moments paying attention to the posts I've posted over the past three years, including many you responded to with this line of attack -

you would have seen that we were in the process of becoming homeless, when we moved here to an area that had already been developed back in the 1970's.

And yes I objected to the expansion south of 466A. The Developer, if he truly wanted to benefit the existing community AND profit - could have supported the fruit groves and agribusiness that were struggling, and turned them around to provide jobs, healthy living, healthy foods, and healthy activities for the entire community.

They chose to buy the properties and gut them instead. But what's done is done, they can't undo what they've done to destroy the acreage. All we can do now is to promote the community to people who want to be better stewards for the future.

And you can do it for a profit. I'm still a proud happy money-spending capitalist.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I don't believe anyone has said it is "necessary" to have either one...

The discussion is about the reaction "if" they do decide to recite, play them...

So if I find out where you'll be dining next, and bring a hand-held American flag with me, stand just inside the doorway and start reciting the Pledge..

You'll stop eating and stand?

How about when I wait 5 minutes, and recite it again? Will you stop eating and stand again?

How about if I see you walk into the bathroom, and I go in there and start reciting the pledge there with my flag waving in my hand?

If you're driving down the street and see me waving my flag and I'm reciting the pledge, will you stop your car, get out of it, and stand to recite the pledge with me?

No? Why not?

Answer: because it's not appropriate for me to do that.

Just like it's not appropriate for a band to exploit a little girl who probably has NO idea what the words even mean, by making go on stage to recite the pledge before they start playing.

[Keefelane66]

So if I find out where you'll be dining next, and bring a hand-held American flag with me, stand just inside the doorway and start reciting the Pledge..

You'll stop eating and stand?

How about when I wait 5 minutes, and recite it again? Will you stop eating and stand again?

How about if I see you walk into the bathroom, and I go in there and start reciting the pledge there with my flag waving in my hand?

If you're driving down the street and see me waving my flag and I'm reciting the pledge, will you stop your car, get out of it, and stand to recite the pledge with me?

No? Why not?

Answer: because it's not appropriate for me to do that.

Just like it's not appropriate for a band to exploit a little girl who probably has NO idea what the words even mean, by making go on stage to recite the pledge before they start playing.
Interesting story if you were ever in the military @ COLORS the raising and lowering of the flag at Military installations. All motion stops including vehicle movement. If you are outside you are required to stop and turn facing direction of flag staff.
At smaller units I was stationed flag was raised and lowered with no fan fare.

[coffeebean]

Hmmm. Recital of the Pledge of Allegiance is viewed as a PR stunt and thus people refused to show their Allegiance?
They used to recite The Pledge before the school day started every day. Done to instill patriotism.
Perhaps we need a reminder of what it means to be a citizen and be a member of this Republic that so many have sacrificed themselves to preserve. Our veterans are not the only ones who have made sacrifices... many citizens have fought for rights of citizens as well, i.e. abolition of slavery, civil rights, rights to vote, women's rights.
Our Republic is not perfect, but in my opinion, it has helped create the only Nation in the world I want to call home.
So, what is wrong with showing a little patriotism? Is it really to much to ask for to expect (you do have the right to refuse) our citizens to show a little respect and remind us that we owe a little Allegiance to this great Nation?
Says a lot about American citizens today.
I remember pledging allegiance to our flag as a kid in school. It went something like this.......
" I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for Richard stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and justice for all".

[Keefelane66]

It's surprising that the National Anthem isn't played every day at the start of the PGA Tournaments. Guess they aren't patriotic...

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Interesting story if you were ever in the military @ COLORS the raising and lowering of the flag at Military installations. All motion stops including vehicle movement. If you are outside you are required to stop and turn facing direction of flag staff.
At smaller units I was stationed flag was raised and lowered with no fan fare.

Yup we had the same thing at summer camp, every morning we'd play reveille and raise the flag, with every camper, counselor, and staffer standing still to silently observe. At dusk, we'd lower and fold the flag. At bedtime we played taps and prayed our thanks for the day we'd just experienced.

The Villages has LOTS of flagpoles. Many have American flags on them. Many of those flags are in various stages of disarray - tattered, faded, torn, dirty.

They keep those flags up 24/7, regardless of the weather, even though many of those flagpoles have no illumination.

Many of these people who have their flags up in such horrible conditions, very clearly against the (non-enforceable) Flag Code, are people who claim to be patriots.

You want to display your patriotism with your flag? Then treat it properly and with the respect it is due. Otherwise - sit down and hold your tongue. Which is exactly what many of us do, because many of US have more respect for that flag than many self-proclaimed "patriots" who fly it from their flagpoles.

I don't need a flag to be a patriot. I don't need to prove my patriotism to anyone. But if I were going to raise a flag, you'd better believe I'd handle it with the respect it's due.

[golfing eagles]

If you had actually spent a few moments paying attention to the posts I've posted over the past three years, including many you responded to with this line of attack -

you would have seen that we were in the process of becoming homeless, when we moved here to an area that had already been developed back in the 1970's.

And yes I objected to the expansion south of 466A. The Developer, if he truly wanted to benefit the existing community AND profit - could have supported the fruit groves and agribusiness that were struggling, and turned them around to provide jobs, healthy living, healthy foods, and healthy activities for the entire community.

They chose to buy the properties and gut them instead. But what's done is done, they can't undo what they've done to destroy the acreage. All we can do now is to promote the community to people who want to be better stewards for the future.

And you can do it for a profit. I'm still a proud happy money-spending capitalist.

And if this was California, the developer might have gone that route. Thank God we aren't

[fdpaq0580]

And if this was California, the developer might have gone that route. Thank God we aren't

First, God had nothing to do with it.
Second, developers in California love building as much as Florida developers.

[I'm Popeye!]

I remember pledging allegiance to our flag as a kid in school. It went something like this.......
" I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for Richard stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and justice for all".

Did the jokester also sing, "Oh Jose can you see," at the beginning of OUR National Anthem.. :shocked:

[golfing eagles]

First, God had nothing to do with it.
Second, developers in California love building as much as Florida developers.

Doubt it. Different audience.

[Boomer]

Nice rant...

Except the thread was never about standing for THAT song...

I won't even respond to the political nonsense...


Well, hello there, Mintz, my old nemesis. And, hey, thanks for reading my post #142 and you even quoted me in 143. Made it all worth writing the “rant.” :)

But, c’mon, surely you don’t mean you really cannot see this thread is most certainly about not standing for THAT SONG. I would call THAT SONG a dog whistle, but I have too much respect for dogs.

Your fiend,
Boomer

[JMintzer]

If you had actually spent a few moments paying attention to the posts I've posted over the past three years, including many you responded to with this line of attack -

you would have seen that we were in the process of becoming homeless, when we moved here to an area that had already been developed back in the 1970's.

And yes I objected to the expansion south of 466A. The Developer, if he truly wanted to benefit the existing community AND profit - could have supported the fruit groves and agribusiness that were struggling, and turned them around to provide jobs, healthy living, healthy foods, and healthy activities for the entire community.

They chose to buy the properties and gut them instead. But what's done is done, they can't undo what they've done to destroy the acreage. All we can do now is to promote the community to people who want to be better stewards for the future.

And you can do it for a profit. I'm still a proud happy money-spending capitalist.

Okay, cool... I bought a re-sale, so all is good...

Carry on...


P.S. Do you actually expect me to remember everything about your life?

[JMintzer]

So if I find out where you'll be dining next, and bring a hand-held American flag with me, stand just inside the doorway and start reciting the Pledge..

You'll stop eating and stand?

How about when I wait 5 minutes, and recite it again? Will you stop eating and stand again?

How about if I see you walk into the bathroom, and I go in there and start reciting the pledge there with my flag waving in my hand?

If you're driving down the street and see me waving my flag and I'm reciting the pledge, will you stop your car, get out of it, and stand to recite the pledge with me?

No? Why not?

Answer: because it's not appropriate for me to do that.

Just like it's not appropriate for a band to exploit a little girl who probably has NO idea what the words even mean, by making go on stage to recite the pledge before they start playing.

You like harassing people in restaurants? You like following people into the rest room? If so, typically, I'm already standing... But I'll be sure to give you the proper salute...

I'll said, I do enjoy your vivid imagination of the absurd... I believe there's a term for what you just did... Oh right, "Reductio ad Absurdum"...

AFA cars go, If I see someone waving a flag while driving, talking to themselves (I'm not a very good lip reader), I'll do my best to avoid said person. They may have a mental problem...

I'm a fan of what they do in Israel, for Holocaust Remembrance Day...

https://youtu.be/aSY-AWH_VNU

[I'm Popeye!]

Okay, cool... I bought a re-sale, so all is good...

Carry on...


P.S. Do you actually expect me to remember everything about your life?

Sure, Miss OrangeTyphoneBaby has an autobiography, the number one reader's book at the Orange Blossom public library. The front cover has a picture of a freckle face woman with orange hair; hurry, pick up a copy. They are disappearing fast...

[JMintzer]

And if this was California, the developer might have gone that route. Thank God we aren't

Well, the fruit groves in central FL were already disappearing due to freezes and crop disease before construction of the villages began, so there's that...

[JMintzer]

Well, hello there, Mintz, my old nemesis. And, hey, thanks for reading my post #142 and you even quoted me in 143. Made it all worth writing the “rant.” :)

But, c’mon, surely you don’t mean you really cannot see this thread is most certainly about not standing for THAT SONG. I would call THAT SONG a dog whistle, but I have too much respect for dogs.

Your fiend,
Boomer

Well, considering the ORIGINAL POSTER returned to clarify that it WASN'T about not standing for THAT SONG (post #26), I'm not sure I can help you.

I can explain it to you, but I can't understand it for you...

[Boomer]

The band Hayfire played a great show at Brownwood last night. They had a little girl about 7 do the Pledge of Allegiance and then they sang the Proud to be an American song by Lee Greenwood. It was stunning to see the people who remained seated and didn’t even show respect. Where has American pride gone?

Well, considering the ORIGINAL POSTER returned to clarify that it WASN'T about not standing for THAT SONG (post #26), I'm not sure I can help you.

I can explain it to you, but I can't understand it for you...


Seriously? You missed it? I guess I gave you more credit than was due.

Maybe I can help you......

It's right there. I didn't buy the backpedaling in #26. Looked more like backpeddling to me.

I explained in #142 why I will never stand up for THAT SONG. I guess you do.......

Well, alrighty then. I understand just fine.....all too well.

Boomer