Deployment makes me proud to be an American and a Marine
Since my recent arrival here in Afghanistan, I believe I have become more patriotic and proud to be a Marine. The latter seems normal since now I am performing a service to the Marine Corps, and America herself.
One thing I noticed that is alot more prevalent here in Afghanistan that seems to be lacking back home, is Patriotism. When Old Glory is flown here, people take it seriously. Back home, it angers me every time I see a mistreatment of our Nations Flag. Even at the MCX at Cherry Point, the American Flag can be seen flying at night without properly being lit up. Here however, every single flag that is flown is treated with the respect that is deserving of the colors that make America what it is. You can request to have a flag flown in honor of someone, and you recieve your flag back to you after the flag is flown with a certificate of appreciation from the 2MAW CG, and Sgt. Maj.
It just makes me proud to be an American when I see Old Glory taken care of how she/he deserves. (I am actually unsure of the national flags gender, although I know it is regarded as a 'living thing'. Quoting the USMC Flag Manual)