Flag Day 2014, a teachable moment Published June 13, 2014 By Laura McGowan 88 Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE -- Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, a child of the 60's and 70's, I have many happy memories. There were some blips in the road, but I loved school, sports, boys and patriotic holidays. I would watch the military honor guard, marching in formation, carrying the flag. My brother was in the Air Force, and those military members reminded me of him. I was sold hook, line and sinker that I would one day wear the Air Force uniform with pride. I was taught to respect the flag, and I have taught that to my children. I also taught them the meaning of the Flag and what the colors represented--the white stripes represent purity and innocence. The red stripes mean valor, and the blue meaning truth and justice. In the 60's and 70's there were many things and movements going on, such as civil rights, Black power, Afros and fist bumps. Even though I wore and Afro, I believed and still believe that people of all colors and backgrounds should be treated with respect and afforded the ability to succeed. So, at our school games when the National Anthem was being played, my Afro and I chose to stand and place my hand on my heart, even while some of my friends and peers gave me an unapproving glare. I followed in my brother's footsteps and honorably served my country in the Air Force, and I will always believe that our Flag represents what's best in America. Our Flag holds Americans to a higher standard, supporting and creating an atmosphere of togetherness that surpasses our differences. Under this flag, there is only one race--the human race--regardless of our color.