Look Out America
The "Grey Brigade" is Long & Strong
A Reader's Editorial
A Reader's Editorial
The typical U.S. household headed by a person age 65 or older has a net worth 47 times greater than a household headed by someone under 35, according to a recent analysis of census data.
Those "youngsters" like to refer to us as senior citizens, old fogies, blue
hairs, geezers, and in some cases, dinosaurs.
Many of us are "Baby
Boomers", descendants from the "Greatest
Generation".
We walk a little slower these days and our
eyes and hearing are not what they once were. We worked hard, raised
our children, worshiped our God and have grown old together.
In school we studied English, history, math, and science, which
enabled us to lead America into the technological age.
We still use
two spaces after a period when typing. Most of us remember what
outhouses were, some of us with firsthand experience. We remember the
days of telephone party-lines, $.25 gasoline, and milk and ice being
delivered to our homes.
We are probably considered old fashioned and outdated by many, but
there are a few things they need to remember before completely writing
us off.
We won World War II, fought in Korea and Vietnam, in some cases, sent our kids to the Persian Gulf, and watched our wonderful first responders run in two New York buildings to save the lives of others, while losing their own.
We can quote “The Pledge of Allegiance”, memorized "The Gettysburg Address", and know where to place our hand while doing so.
We wore the uniform of our country with pride,
and lost many friends on the battlefield.
We didn't fight for the
Socialist States of America; we fought for the "Land of the Free
and the Home of the Brave."
We wore different uniforms, but
carried the same flag.
And there is no way we will dishonor it by burning it, stomping on it, or "taking a knee" to disrespect "Old Glory".
We know the words to the “Star Spangled Banner,” “America,”
and “America the Beautiful” by heart, and they may even see some
tears running down our cheeks as we sing.
We have lived what many of us should have read in history books and we feel no obligation to
apologize to anyone for America.
Yes, we are older and slower these days but rest assured, we have at
least one good fight left in us.
We love this country, fought and
died for it, and now we are going to save it.
It is our country and
nobody is going to take it away from us.
We took oaths to defend
America against all enemies, foreign and domestic, and that’s an
oath we plan to keep.
There are those who want to destroy this land we love but, like our founders, there is no way we are going to remain silent as we watch our history be rewritten.
Those who do need to taste socialism and see
evil face to face, we suggest they do. Many of us "geezers" will even pay for a one way ticket to nations who live by it...if they promise not to return.
See what happens to them if they "peacefully protest" in China or Russia or Iran or burn or loot a factory or a flag.
Strange that we don't see many people running from our country; instead we see them running to it...to escape a Socialistic world.
Well, for you out there who believe that socialism is a better way, be assured that the Grey-Haired Brigade is here, and we're not ready to give you the nation that we, our parents, and their parents, and their parents, and their parents, fought to give you.
So the next time you have the chance to say the Pledge of Allegiance,
stand up, put your hand over your heart, honor your country, and
thank God for the old geezers of the "Gray-Haired Brigade."
They are the "Spirit of America's" past, present, and God willing, its future.
Got a comment?
Send it to us at:
scaopinions@gmail.com
Thank you Dick for the editorial! Perhaps it's time to resurrect Nathan Hale's last words..."My only regret is that I have but one life to give for my Country."
Robert, I don't think a single Vet or first responder who loved their country wouldn't agree with your words.
How about this one...the eulogy by Henry "Light Horse" Lee, a distinguished Commanding Officer of the Continental Army, at the passing of George Washington.
These words must never be forgotten, but somehow, some now wish to dishonor even that great man.
This the George Washington that must be remembered, and I believe us "geezers" still believe Lee's every word.
“First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in humble and enduring scenes of private life. Pious, just, humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform, dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting.... Correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues.... Such was the man for whom our nation mourns.”
Should this great man and the monument built in his honor be dishonored because Henry "Light Horse Lee" was the father of Robert E. Lee of the Confederate States of America?
I think not.
How about this one...the eulogy by Henry "Light Horse" Lee, a distinguished Commanding Officer of the Continental Army, at the passing of George Washington.
These words must never be forgotten, but somehow, some now wish to dishonor even that great man.
This the George Washington that must be remembered, and I believe us "geezers" still believe Lee's every word.
“First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in humble and enduring scenes of private life. Pious, just, humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform, dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting.... Correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues.... Such was the man for whom our nation mourns.”
Should this great man and the monument built in his honor be dishonored because Henry "Light Horse Lee" was the father of Robert E. Lee of the Confederate States of America?
I think not.
From Lenore Nusser...to...Anthem Opinions
Good morning. The article posted today about us “old geezers” and baby boomers was very true and appropriate.
Good morning. The article posted today about us “old geezers” and baby boomers was very true and appropriate.
From Peter Brown...to...Anthem Opinions
Definitely true and appropriate!
Definitely true and appropriate!
From Thom Wollard...to...Anthem Opinions
AMEN! Nice job.
AMEN! Nice job.
-
From John Schmidt...to...Anthem Opinions
AMEN! -
From Pat Metzger...to...Anthem Opinions
Loved your piece on the "Grey Brigade." How true this all is yet how sad in these times of unrest.
Watching youngsters disrespect our flag, our President, God, and our entire country makes me want to cry.
4 More Years!
From Paul & Jo Ellen Christensen...to...Anthem Opinions Barbara's article was great. Thanks for sharing.
From Charlie Wong...to...Anthem Opinions
Good Afternoon Dick.
This was an excellent article about our old foogies,
To tell you the truth Dick, as I was reading your well written article, every line after every line, I feel emotional about how lucky I am to be living in America.
My eyes were fill with tears of happiness and Joy.
Dick, thanks for writing this wonderful, meaningful inspiring article.
I salute you for your Love of Our Great Country called the United States of America.
God Bless America.
Good Afternoon Dick.
This was an excellent article about our old foogies,
To tell you the truth Dick, as I was reading your well written article, every line after every line, I feel emotional about how lucky I am to be living in America.
My eyes were fill with tears of happiness and Joy.
Dick, thanks for writing this wonderful, meaningful inspiring article.
I salute you for your Love of Our Great Country called the United States of America.
God Bless America.
Thank you Charlie, but the credit goes to Barbara W. She sent it to us, and we felt as you did.
As you know, we might not be a perfect nation, but we're the close to it on the face of this earth as far as I'm concerned.
I am a first generation American.
My mother came to this country in "steerage" on a boat at the age of 7 after her father came here and saved enough money to bring his family to America.
She is listed on the rolls of Ellis Island.
She didn't speak English and over her lifetime, she ended up speaking it better than most people.
She would tell me how it felt to look at the Statue of Liberty with hope of a new life in a new nation.
Her father, my grandfather, was in the German army during World War I, and prior to being captured by the Russians and placed in a prisoner of war camp for 2 years, had his thumb shot off during combat, making it difficult for a carpenter to earn an income, save money and eventually send for his wife and 2 daughters to join him in Chicago.
His wife, my grandmother, died at the age of 39, after being in America for only 2 years, He supported his 2 young children, never remarrying, and becoming an American citizen.
That is my definition of an American.
He earned it, while so many of us merely accept it out of birth.
My grandfather on my dad's side, came to America under similar circumstances, in the early 1900s,
He lost 2 daughters to the flu epidemic of 1918, but his son, my dad, started a small business that supported his wife and 2 children until his retirement.
That too...is my definition of an American experiencing "the American dream"...opportunity, if one chooses to take it, despite the obstacles life places in your path.
Both did, they never looked for excuses to blame others, but instead, made successes of themselves, with the attitude that their children would have a better life then they did.
Charlie, the history of the Chinese in America is also the "American dream", and the hardships they faced were immeasurable.
They came to America, were discriminated against, and even at one point in American history, had a law passed by Congress in which the Chinese would be banned from ever becoming American citizens.
They built the transcontinental railroad, and the famous picture of "the golden spike" had a missing element....no Chinese American was included in the photo who built it.
Chinese culture stayed in America and despite all the discrimination they faced, worked through it and became some of the wealthiest people in our nation.
That too...is the "Spirit of America"...working through adversity, and yet becoming successful.
And for those who complain, they should look at those who preceded them, study their efforts, and use them as an example of what they have at their disposal, yet refuse to emulate.
God Bless this Great Nation.
As you know, we might not be a perfect nation, but we're the close to it on the face of this earth as far as I'm concerned.
I am a first generation American.
My mother came to this country in "steerage" on a boat at the age of 7 after her father came here and saved enough money to bring his family to America.
She is listed on the rolls of Ellis Island.
She didn't speak English and over her lifetime, she ended up speaking it better than most people.
She would tell me how it felt to look at the Statue of Liberty with hope of a new life in a new nation.
Her father, my grandfather, was in the German army during World War I, and prior to being captured by the Russians and placed in a prisoner of war camp for 2 years, had his thumb shot off during combat, making it difficult for a carpenter to earn an income, save money and eventually send for his wife and 2 daughters to join him in Chicago.
His wife, my grandmother, died at the age of 39, after being in America for only 2 years, He supported his 2 young children, never remarrying, and becoming an American citizen.
That is my definition of an American.
He earned it, while so many of us merely accept it out of birth.
My grandfather on my dad's side, came to America under similar circumstances, in the early 1900s,
He lost 2 daughters to the flu epidemic of 1918, but his son, my dad, started a small business that supported his wife and 2 children until his retirement.
That too...is my definition of an American experiencing "the American dream"...opportunity, if one chooses to take it, despite the obstacles life places in your path.
Both did, they never looked for excuses to blame others, but instead, made successes of themselves, with the attitude that their children would have a better life then they did.
Charlie, the history of the Chinese in America is also the "American dream", and the hardships they faced were immeasurable.
They came to America, were discriminated against, and even at one point in American history, had a law passed by Congress in which the Chinese would be banned from ever becoming American citizens.
They built the transcontinental railroad, and the famous picture of "the golden spike" had a missing element....no Chinese American was included in the photo who built it.
Chinese culture stayed in America and despite all the discrimination they faced, worked through it and became some of the wealthiest people in our nation.
That too...is the "Spirit of America"...working through adversity, and yet becoming successful.
And for those who complain, they should look at those who preceded them, study their efforts, and use them as an example of what they have at their disposal, yet refuse to emulate.
God Bless this Great Nation.
-
From Clara Lau...to...Anthem Opinions
Cannot agree with you gentlemen more.
I love this country and want it protected from any harm.
Only cowards stooped to rioting and destruction.
Strong ones will work hard to earn for their family and always strive to be their best instead of blaming others or taking away others’ wealth!
Let us be proud citizens and wish others will do the same!
Thank you Dick for the editorial! Perhaps it's time to resurrect Nathan Hale's last words..."My only regret is that I have but one life to give for my Country."
ReplyDeleteRobert, I don't think a single Vet or first responder who loved their country wouldn't agree with your words.
ReplyDeleteHow about this one...the eulogy by Henry "Light Horse" Lee, a distinguished Commanding Officer of the Continental Army, at the passing of George Washington.
These words must never be forgotten, but somehow, some now wish to dishonor even that great man.
This the George Washington that must be remembered, and I believe us "geezers" still believe Lee's every word.
“First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in humble and enduring scenes of private life. Pious, just, humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform, dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting.... Correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues.... Such was the man for whom our nation mourns.”
Should this great man and the monument built in his honor be dishonored because Henry "Light Horse Lee" was the father of Robert E. Lee of the Confederate States of America?
I think not.
From Lenore Nusser...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteGood morning. The article posted today about us “old geezers” and baby boomers was very true and appropriate.
From Peter Brown...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteDefinitely true and appropriate!
From Thom Wollard...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteAMEN! Nice job.
From John Schmidt...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteAMEN!
From Pat Metzger...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteLoved your piece on the "Grey Brigade." How true this all is yet how sad in these times of unrest.
Watching youngsters disrespect our flag, our President, God, and our entire country makes me want to cry.
4 More Years!
From Paul & Jo Ellen Christensen...to...Anthem Opinions Barbara's article was great. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteFrom Charlie Wong...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteGood Afternoon Dick.
This was an excellent article about our the old foogies,
To tell you the truth Dick, as I was reading your well written article, every line after every line, I feel emotional about how lucky I am to be living in America.
My eyes were fill with tears of happiness and Joy.
Dick, thanks for writing this wonderful, meaningful inspiring article.
I salute you for your Love of Our Great Country called the United States of America.
God Bless America.
Thank you Charlie, but the credit goes to Barbara W. She sent it to us, and we felt as you did.
ReplyDeleteAs you know, we might not be a perfect nation, but we're the closest to it on the face of this earth as far as I'm concerned.
I am a first generation American.
My mother came to this country in "steerage" on a boat at the age of 7 after her father came here and saved enough money to bring his family to America.
She is listed on the rolls of Ellis Island.
She didn't speak English and over her lifetime, she ended up speaking it better than most people.
She would tell me how it felt to look at the Statue of Liberty with hope of a new life in a new nation.
Her father, my grandfather, was in the German army during World War I, and prior to being captured by the Russians and placed in a prisoner of war camp for 2 years, had his thumb shot off during combat, making it difficult for a carpenter to earn an income, save money and eventually send for his wife and 2 daughters to join him in Chicago.
His wife, my grandmother, died at the age of 39, after being in America for only 2 years, He supported his 2 young children, never remarrying, and becoming an American citizen.
That is my definition of an American.
He earned it, while so many of us merely accept it out of birth.
My grandfather on my dad's side, came to America under similar circumstances, in the early 1900s,
He lost 2 daughters to the flu epidemic of 1918, but his son, my dad, started a small business that supported his wife and 2 children until his retirement.
That too...is my definition of an American experiencing "the American dream"...opportunity, if one chooses to take it, despite the obstacles life places in your path.
Both did, they never looked for excuses to blame others, but instead, made successes of themselves, with the attitude that their children would have a better life then they did.
Charlie, the history of the Chinese in America is also the "American dream", and the hardships they faced were immeasurable.
They came to America, were discriminated against, and even at one point in American history, had a law passed by Congress in which the Chinese would be banned from ever becoming American citizens.
They built the transcontinental railroad, and the famous picture of "the golden spike" had a missing element....no Chinese American was included in the photo who built it.
Chinese culture stayed in America and despite all the discrimination they faced, worked through it and became some of the wealthiest people in our nation.
That too...is the "Spirit of America"...working through adversity, and yet becoming successful.
And for those who complain, they should look at those who preceded them, study their efforts, and use them as an example of what they have at their disposal, yet refuse to emulate.
God Bless this Great Nation.
From Clara Lau...to...Anthem Opinions
ReplyDeleteCannot agree with you gentlemen more.
I love this country and want it protected from any harm.
Only cowards stooped to rioting and destruction.
Strong ones will work hard to earn for their family and always strive to be their best instead of blaming others or taking away others’ wealth!
Let us be proud citizens and wish others will do the same!