Hailey McIntire a 7th grader here at SLMS received a 1st place finish for the Puyallup Branch FRA (Fleet Reserve Association) Americanism writing contest and placed 2nd in the 7th-12th grade Regional competition. Her teacher Mr. Roger Herrington challenged his students to express their thoughts on patriotism. Congratulations Hailey, we are proud of you! 

Why I Am Proud To Be An American

By Hailey McIntire

            What struck you when you read that title?  The famed Paul Revere, who warned us of the British?  The ever-popular red-white-and-blue flag sewn by Betsy Ross?  Or maybe something along the lines of the Declaration of Independence?  Yes, all of these things have to do with America, but I’m proud to be a citizen of it for different reasons.

            One reason is the simple fact that this country gives people hope.  Immigrants around the world risk everything to come here, sometimes illegally, but only because they believe that they will prosper and live in a better way.  Studies show that if over three quarters of them had to do it over again, they’d still come here.

            Another reason to take pride in living here is that U.S. citizens have opportunities many others do not.  We have freedom of speech, press, religion, the right to assemble, and the right to petition.  We choose who governs over us and who our president is.  We’re considered to be the most powerful country in the world.

            Even as a child, I’m able to appreciate the benefits of being an American.  I’m allowed an education, which will help me in my adult life to go to college and begin a career.  My parents are able to keep the money they earn, which puts food on my plate and a roof over my head.

            America has kept its freedom for over two centuries, not backing down from anyone or anything that threatens that freedom.  I can go about my day with the secure feeling that I live in an independent land.  That’s why I take pride in being an American.