[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 119 (Friday, July 21, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1493]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       SALUTE TO AMANDA SZALASNY

                                 ______


                        HON. MICHAEL R. McNULTY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, July 21, 1995
  Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I salute an outstanding young woman from my 
congressional district, Amanda Szalasny. Amanda was recently awarded 
first place in the essay contest, ``What the American Flag Means to 
Me,'' sponsored by the Legnard-Curtin American Legion post, which is 
located in Green Island, NY.
  The American Legion has long supported efforts to educate young 
people about the flag and what it means to all Americans. Amanda 
Szalasny's essay reflects the values that the American Legion has 
always promoted.
                     What the U.S. Flag Means to Me

                        (By Amanda M. Szalasny)

       To me the U.S. flag means liberty and independence. It is 
     one of the most important things in all Americans lives. In 
     the following paragraph, you will find out why I feel this 
     way.
       In 1777, the Continental Congress adopted a 13 star and 
     stripe flag. This was a symbol of freedom, liberty, and 
     independence of the United States. I think this flag is very 
     important to all of us because without it, someone could 
     overpower us easily. We wouldn't have the liberty or 
     independence we do now. So many times, we see the flag and we 
     don't even stop to think about how important it is to us. We 
     barely give it the slightest glance. It is not only a piece 
     of fabric, it is a symbol of our freedom and independence. We 
     don't think about what we'd be without it. The flag should be 
     looked at with respect and loyalty. So many times we hear the 
     Star Spangled Banner and say the Pledge of Allegiance without 
     thinking about what we're hearing or saying. What ever 
     happened to the patriotism we used to show for our flag? Now 
     we just hear the Star Spangled Banner and we don't even 
     bother to really listen to this music or look at the flag as 
     we hear it. We say the Pledge of Allegiance without that 
     patriotism in our voice. We have to realize what these things 
     all mean, and treat them with respect. I think our flag 
     should be appreciated by everyone. I appreciate it and try to 
     show the best patriotism I possibly can when I say the Pledge 
     of Allegiance or hear the Star Spangled Banner. And most of 
     all, when I look at our U.S. flag, I don't see just a piece 
     of decorated fabric. I see a symbol of liberty, independence, 
     and my country! I feel that if I do this, maybe others will 
     follow.
       In conclusion, I feel that our flag should be treated 
     better because of all it represents. It represents us and I 
     hope that patriotism for our flag will be shown more. 
     Remember what it does for us.
     

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