I understand the we cannot all be Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. What I don't understand is why there are Americans who preclude themselves from service in the defense of freedom. Many of you might be thinking that you have the right to raise your voice in disagreement over government policy, and I concur. It is our duty and responsibility as Americans to protect our freedom and ensure the government does not infringe upon those freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States. However, I am speaking of supporting our Nation and the forces which protect it from enemies foreign and domestic.
Patriotism means to stand by the country.
It does not mean to stand by the president or any public official, save exactly to the degree he himself stands by the country. Theodore Roosevelt understood well the meaning of Patriotism, and also the responsibility of Liberty. Not since World War II has our nation been united in support of Freedom. In WWII men actually volunteered for military service before they were called forth. Back then there was pride of country, pride in being American, pride in the ideals of Liberty.