GUY CARROZZO -- Mayor’s Column

An act of Congress on Aug. 3, 1949, designated June 14 as National Flag

Day. I hope you have all heard by now that I am dedicating my year as

mayor to our country’s veterans and prisoners of war. I want to honor

these individuals and to celebrate 2000 with a renewed burst of

patriotism.

The freedoms that we enjoy today, in 2000 and beyond, were fought for and

protected by the soldiers -- and all branches of the service -- with

unheard of sacrifices.

I want us to remember the men and women who died throughout the world to

keep our country free.

I know that many of you were involved in the fighting, the wars, and that

you had friends and family members who gave the ultimate sacrifice --

their lives -- for their country.

How do we honor these veterans and prisoners of war? Well, we honor them

by honoring the spirit of the flag for which they fought, sacrificed and

died.

Now some people might say, “Guy, you’re a flag waver.”

Well, here is what I would say to them, “You bet I’m a flag waver” --

I’ll always be the first one to stand up and wave our flag for the

veterans, prisoners of war and military of our country.

I want to encourage everyone to purchase and fly a flag this Flag Day,

June 14.

Actually, I would love to see flags flying all over our city on all major

holidays, so remember July 4 is just around the corner.

My dream is to see a flag flying on every home in Fountain Valley.

I know some people would say that is impossible, but what a dream that

is! Let’s honor the heroes of the past by being patriots of the present.

* GUY CARROZZO is mayor of Fountain Valley.