Many reasons to be proud of the flag

I disagree with Ms. Lightner's letter, "Not a time to be proud of the flag." The reality is that we have not had a terrorist attack in the United States since 9/11. Does Ms. Lightner believe this is due to non-binding resolutions and endless oversight?

Ms. Lightner is wrong about how sophisticated my countrymen are. Americans do know what goes on. We know women around the globe are oppressed, we know there are despotic governments. How would she explain the current conversation about Iran, Israel, Palestine, democracy in Russia, Chinese products, illegal immigration? Do we debate these issues because we are naive? Are state-run news organizations like Pravda and Al Jazeera more objective? Ms. Lightner, why do so many Cubans want to escape their superior health care? Why do so many people come here illegally? It is called freedom.

I think Ms. Lightner would serve herself well if she became less political and dealt with her guilt of privilege. Just because she lives in an area of the world that is peaceful, has abundant resources and is relatively free doesn't mean she has to manage this by being negative, denigrating her neighbors and the country she lives in.

I am proud that we live in a country where we can disagree. I support our troops and believe in what they are doing. I want them to win. Do you, Ms. Lightner? I won't support decisions that cause them to lose. I am proud to fly the flag on my home and have one on my car.

To you Ms. Lightner, and I believe I speak for many Americans, your words can cut. But I warn you, when you deal the last blow to my heart, it will bleed red, white and blue.

Matthew Skarbek

Naperville