Eighth graders Bella and Brady attended the Cohoes-Waterford Elks Lodge #1317 Flag Day Ceremony on June 14. They had the opportunity to read their winning essays from the Americanism Essay Contest, which is sponsored each year by the Elks. This year's theme was, “What does Patriotism Mean to Me?” Fifth graders Estella Mora and Brandon Gibbins also had winning essays.

Bella H.

Patriotism means a lot to me as an eighth grader. It's about loving the country and feeling proud to be a part of it. When I think about patriotism, I think about everything that makes my country special, like our history, culture, and the freedoms we enjoy.

One way I show patriotism is by learning about our history. It's important to know about the people and events that have shaped our nation. For example, people like reading about the Civil War and how people fought for their country. Knowing these stories makes me appreciate the sacrifices made so we can live in a free country today. Another way I express patriotism is by respecting our national symbols, like the flag and the national anthem. When I see the American Flag I always show respect during the national anthem because it reminds me of the values and laws that our country stands for.

Patriotism also means being a good citizen and helping the community. I believe that small actions, like volunteering or being kind to others can make a difference. 

Lastly, patriotism means appreciating the rights we have. Not everyone in the world has the same rights and privileges that we do. Being able to speak freely, go to school, and pursue our dreams are things I don't take for granted. I feel grateful for these opportunities and want to make the most of them.

In conclusion, patriotism is about love, respect, and pride for our country. It's about learning our history, respecting our symbols, being a good citizen, and appreciating our freedoms. As an eighth grader, I believe that showing patriotism helps bring us together and makes our country a better place for everyone.

Brady S.

When I think of patriotism, I think of loving and defending my country.  I also think of the flag. The flag is a symbol of everything our country represents and a reminder of everything our ancestors fought for. We display the flag in public areas such as schools, sports arenas, town squares and parks, and more. I respect the flag and demonstrate my patriotism in many ways. 

One way I show my patriotism is by doing the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the National Anthem. I was taught the Pledge of Allegiance as a young kid and continue to recite the words daily at school. I heard the National Anthem played before I knew how important it was and what it represented. As a young kid, I thought it was just a song we played before baseball games. Today, I know it’s significance and I hold my hand over my heart and always remove my hat as a way to show my loyalty and devotion. 

A second way I show my patriotism is by attending and participating in local patriotic parades and events.  I have marched in my local Memorial Day parade and also sat on curbs and waved to marchers.

A third way I show my patriotism is by listening to the stories of my ancestors who fought for our country.  My great grandfathers were both World War II veterans.  My grandparents have told me stories and showed me pictures of their time in the war. My great uncle was a Vietnam medic who was sadly killed in duty.  His name is found on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. 

These are the ways I, and everybody in the United States, should show their patriotism and show respect to their country.