Many years ago I helped out an Appalachian dance team who were visiting England. As thanks for my help they declared me to be an honourary citizen of West Virginia and told me I could proudly claim to be an honourary American.
Having witnessed these past few days the courage and indomitable spirit of the American people I now realise just how proud I should be of the great honour that was granted to me all those years ago.
For many years, I was a member of the Black Watch (RHR) of Canada Pipes and Drums. This afforded me the opportunity, on many occasions, to visit many parts of the United States, including New York City, where we participated in the launching of an Aegis Class Cruiser. We also participated in the bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution by being the only foreign contingent in the parade through Philadelphia. We also attended various Highland Games, such as the one held in Stone Mountain, Georgia.
On every trip I was always impressed by the patriotism and sincere pride that Americans have in their country. Many Canadians criticize your fierce patriotism, but I have always admired it. I sometimes wish that we as Canadians could be as proud of our country as you are of yours. Please remain proud, and strong.
Jamie
I served seven years in the Black Watch, Royal Highland Regiment, in the 1st and 2nd Battlions in Gagetown, and I felt then as you do now. I guess being raised in Windsor Ontario, being inundated from Detroit all are lives, we have the outward pride, that as you observed doesn’t seem to exist in Canada.
I will stand with you to the Line and on your right. Will others join us?
Mark
I see the outpouring of support and caring, shock and dismay around the world, and it is heartening.
In the weeks and months to come, as life returns to normal, please don’t forget the feelings you’re now experiencing. The US government did not give a knee-jerk reaction, did not launch bombers or an air force strike, did not let the heat of the moment dictate response.
A month from now, two months from now, whenever it comes, let there be the same solidarity worldwide. I hope for it, but I am cynical. When the horror has been absorbed and digested, and it will be despite what we might say now, will the nations of the world still stand together to exact retribution from the individuals who planned this, the organizations that support them, and the governments that harbor them?
For anyone who admits that time will dull this horror, and who would like a PowerPoint slide show to keep the memory sharp, please let me know. I’ll forward it to you.
In undiminished sorrow, I swear I will not forget.
To those who join with us in solidarity…we must persevere…to show the whole world that these thousands of people have not died in vain. God bless. Betty
As I was playing “America the Beautiful” on the misty streets of Deadwood, all you whistle nuts were with me! Thanks, folks. I love you all!