Respect for flag is being taught in school

Doris M. Knight, Las Vegas

Sunday, June 29, 2008 | 2:06 a.m.

I would like to reply to Clyde D. Howe’s letter that ran Friday. I agree with most of what he had to say. However, Clark County educators do indeed teach the Pledge of Allegiance and respect for our flag to our students.

I teach a third grade class of mostly Hispanic immigrant students. At the very beginning of the year I explain to them that I come from a very patriotic family. My father served two tours of duty in Korea (where he was wounded) and three tours of duty in Vietnam while he was in the Army.

My husband served many years in the Idaho National Guard. My son is an Air Force officer taking flight training. My stepson is a Marine who recently served in Iraq. My stepson-in-law is also a Marine. Like my father, many of my uncles are retired servicemen.

I tell these facts to my students so that they understand that many Americans put their lives on the line every day for our flag and what it represents. When you live in America, you must respect the flag, stand straight and tall whenever it passes, and put your hand on your heart during the pledge.

My students happily respect our flag. I just wanted to set the record straight.