By Scott Terry of the Silver City-Grant County Chamber of Commerce

Immediately after the attacks of 9/11, it seemed that patriotism was reborn once again in America. Old Glory was being flown in almost every neighborhood. Businesses across the country were showing their patriotism by flying the American flag in front of their stores, shops, offices, and plants. The red, white, and blue could be seen everywhere. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm as our citizens rallied together.

Even today, many businesses continue to fly the American Flag as a sign of patriotism and love for our country. As I drive around Grant County, it's truly wonderful to see those beautiful stars and stripes waving with the big, beautiful New Mexico sky in the background. It is truly a grand sight to behold.

However, I occasionally run across a business that seems to be flying the same flag they raised immediately after 9/11. Torn, tattered and faded... the flag still waves, though it looks tired and worn out. I know the business isn't flying a worn flag on purpose or in disrespect.

Old Glory stands guard 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Sadly, it has become another object in front of the business. Kind of like a storefront needing a new coat of paint, our precious flag has been neglected.

Personally, I don't get a good feeling of patriotism when I see our American flag blowing in shredded pieces.

Our flag was first authorized by Congress on June 14, 1777. Throughout the history of our flag, the colors have been known to represent various things. The red is for valor, zeal and fervency. The white stands for hope, purity, cleanliness of life, and rectitude of conduct.

The blue has been known to symbolize the color of heaven, for reverence to God, loyalty, sincerity, justice and truth. The star represents dominion and sovereignty, as well as lofty aspirations. The constellation of stars within the union, one star for each state, is emblematic of our Federal Constitution which reserves individual sovereignty of the states. The United States Flag is unique in the deep and noble significance of its message to the entire world... a message of national independence, of individual liberty, of idealism, of patriotism.

Mr. Business Owner/Manager, if you are going to fly this incredible symbol of liberty, please follow a few rules of etiquette and respect for our flag.
• If you are going to fly it day and night, make certain our flag is illuminated at night.
• If you are going to leave our flag outside in all types of weather, make certain it is an all-weather flag that will stand up to inclement weather.
• The flag should be hoisted briskly, then lowered ceremoniously.
• The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. (Usually the local American Legion or VFW Posts will accept worn flags and give them a respectful ceremony)

If you are flying the American Flag in front of your home or business, please, take a moment to inspect your flag. Make certain Old Glory is flying in all her majestic splendor, a shining symbol of liberty, a beacon of our patriotism. 'Tis the star-spangled banner. O long may it wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.