Dear Editor:
This letter is in response to Steve Brown's letter to the editor published April 26. While I was not at the opening session of the collector's annual conference I felt compelled to respond to Brown's assumption that collectors and their employees were being disrespectful.
I would argue that it is neither disdain for this country or ignorance if they didn't place their hands over their hearts during the National Anthem. In fact, I think his criticism is rather harsh since the collectors have invited the Marine Corp League to present the colors on several occasions. When I think of patriotism I would say serving in the armed services is the most patriotic thing you can do.
We certainly owe all members of the armed services a debt of gratitude. They have protected our rights, which we truly cherish. After that it might be a tossup as to which is more patriotic, voting or running for public office certainly seems patriotic to me.
I remember growing up and being taught the Pledge of Allegiance and to place your hand over your heart when you made that pledge. I even recall being taught to sing the National Anthem but at no time do I ever recall being told that you should place your hand over your heart when it is sung. I even recall hearing announcers say at various events, "Please place your hands over your heart and join us in the Pledge of Allegiance." I don't recall that being said before the National Anthem is sung.
I think there is a difference between ignorance and a lack of knowledge or tradition, especially if one has never served in the armed forces or other occupations where that is taught. In most cases I think it is the ignorant people that go around telling everyone else that they are ignorant. That always seems to be the easy rebuttal because they can't think of anything intelligent to say.
Brown had the perfect opportunity to teach people from all over this state the appropriate, respectful and expected behavior during the National Anthem since he was part of the color guard. Instead he chose to criticize them behind their backs as most of them will never read the News Tribune since they live all over the state.