Show respect for national anthem

To the editor:

During almost any sporting event the national anthem can be heard. And it should be, for we need to listen to that song and look at the flag that so many men have made the ultimate sacrifice for.

Lately, however, I have noticed more and more disrespect towards both. At one assembly during school when the national anthem was played I noticed a young man who wouldn't stand. I don't always agree with what our government does, but you should at least have the decency to show respect to those who have died and are dying for your freedom.

At sporting events during the anthem I notice people talking or messing with something that in no way could be more important than that song and that flag. I don't stand during the anthem to show respect for those power-hungry politicians in Washington. I do it to show respect for the millions who have died in the defense of something they believed was worth dying for. Those of us who haven't served will never be able to fully comprehend what those soldiers went through and are still going through for our freedom.

So show some respect next time you hear that song. It's only a few minutes of your time, but to those who have served it means more than you will ever know.

SETH WARD

Scott City