The RED stripes stand for COURAGE and the loss of blood to preserve our Liberty—just imagine how far down a man would have to reach to run out of an LST into a hail of gunfire on a beach, knowing all the time the short odds of survival. So many of if not all of us almost lose it if our internet or cable goes down for 10 minutes, or we have to wait in line somewhere for 2 minutes longer than we think appropriate. This is not to say that there are not frustrations every day; it’s just to say put them in perspective and never forget that others gave all for the opportunities we have to live free today. Thomas Jefferson said, “The tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time by the blood of patriots and tyrants.” I believe tens of millions of US are prepared to do just that if circumstances dictate, so WE can pass on to OUR progeny what was passed on to US.

The WHITE stripes represent the PURITY of the American idea. That doesn’t mean we hit the target all the time—no flawed human could—but it tells the world what WE always aim for.

The BLUE field stands for VIGILANCE. Jefferson also said the price of liberty is eternal vigilance. Ben Franklin cautioned US that it is in the region of ignorance that tyranny begins. I believe too many of US have been distracted by living Our lives, including me and a whole lot of other Boomers, which is understandable given the freedom we’ve had, but that has resulted in the situation WE are in right now. The good news is the bear has been poked, and millions who just wanted to be left alone are getting involved. Bigly, as Our President has been known to say. They’ve come face-to-face with the immutable truth that a government big enough to give you want is big enough to take away everything you need.