What I feel when I look up at the American Flag Published June 13, 2006 By Shelby Muehlenthaler 5th grader, Tommy's Road Elementary SEYMOUR-JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. (AFPN) -- When I look at the American flag, I see something beautiful. I feel so many different things such as honor, patriotism, freedom, pride, safety and thankfulness. I also think of our service members. I feel honor when I look up at the American flag because I am able to live here in America and live freely. We have freedom of speech, freedom of religion and freedom of thought, and I don't have to worry about anyone telling me how to live. Men and women have fought for our beautiful country for hundreds of years. I can't help but think of those special people when I look at the flag. My dad is one of those special people that I think about because he also fights for America and for the freedom that we have each and every day. I feel so much pride for him and what he does and he makes me feel safe. I remember going to a funeral of a family friend and co-worker of my dad's. There was an American flag draped over his coffin. The flag reminded me of his deep patriotism and the sacrifices he made. When I look up at the American flag, I think of everything that has made this country the way it is today -- honorable, patriotic and full of pride. The service members have given the flag meaning by the every-day sacrifices they make. I look up at the American flag and it makes me proud to be an American. Editor’s note: Shelby Muehlenthaler, a 5th grade student at Tommy’s Road Elementary, and daughter of Lt Col Dave Muehlenthaler, wrote an essay titled “What I Feel When I Look Up At The American Flag” which was submitted to the local Elks Lodge for the regional Americanism essay contest. Her essay won 1st place in the regional competition for 5th and 6th graders. Her essay then went on to the state level competition where she placed third in the state. The national competition results will be announced this July.