Journalist web-log

Picture #1 Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki; U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad.

Picture #2 Dancing in the streets!

I am an American veteran and a concerned American citizen.  I, like many other American vets, have been following the events in Iraq.  And I have made a few observations that I would like to share with you today. 

One thing that is so important for a fledgling democracy is patriotism.  I have made the observation that it is never, if ever mentioned by the various media outlets or our very own government of the United States of America. 

Patriotism builds national pride.  It creates an atmosphere that is both positive and encouraging.  Patriotism has a two-fold benefit.  It will unite the Iraqi people as a nation.  It shall quicken the return of those Americans who have served their country in Iraq.

We, as a nation, need to teach them that the freedom, which they shall hold dear, is something to celebrate!  They are willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice.  Let them celebrate their independence and freedom.  An Independence Day, something like our Fourth of July, is but one way that the Iraqi people can build national pride. 

I am not a politician.  Nor do I work for any governmental agencies.  This is just an observation that I, as an American citizen, have made.  I think that this concept is not only worthy of mention, but also necessary for their continued success as a nation and hasten the return of our American men and women, who so bravely served their government.

America.  It is something to celebrate and be proud of.  Let's teach them national pride by our example!