Even to this day, I remember exactly what I was doing when I heard about the first plane crashing into the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. I was just beginning my sophomore year of high school, and I was in my second period class which happened to be Algebra II. Every classroom in my high school had a television in it for the students to watch Channel 1, a news program that was broadcasted from a high school about different events that were going on in the country and world. An announcement came over the intercom that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center, and immediately math teacher turned on the television to see if exactly what was happening. While my classmates and I were watching the news, we viewed the second plane crashing into the World Trade Center. I was shocked and could not believe what I had just seen. The United States was under attack by terrorists in the form of crashing commercial airplanes into important buildings.
My friends and I made our way down to the cafeteria to try to eat something for lunch, but simply could not believe the events that had taken place that morning. School closed early, and since, I only lived five minutes from my high school, and my two friends and I were able to walk back to my house. Phones and cell phones were to be strictly reserved for emergencies only to keep phone lines open, but in this case what is considered an emergency? The nation was under terrorist attack, and people wanted to get a hold of their loved ones. Once my friends and I made it to my house, we called our parents to tell them that we were safe, and to see if any new developments had come about. My grandparents happened to be in California on a month long vacation traveling across the United States. They did not hear of the events until late that day.

The year following September 11, 2001, the United States hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. At this time, our nation was still recovering from the terrorist attacks, and mourning the loss of all of the Americans that died in the attacks. I think it was appropriate for our nation to sing the National Anthem, bring in the flag from the World Trade Center, and various other patriotic events that took place during the Opening Ceremony and games of the 2002 Winter Olympics. Mark Falcous and Michael Silk commented the World Trade Center flag was framed as a symbol of future hope, bound with discursive reconstitution of nation post-9/11� (2005, pg. 61). We wanted the world to know that the United States could not be defeated by these attacks, and more importantly, we wanted to take pride in our country.
This summer Beijing, China will hold the 2008 Summer Olympics. Much debate and controversy has been focused on these Olympic Games because of the China government and its involvement in Tibet and Darfur, Sudan. The country of Tibet is controlled by the Chinese government, and many political figures such as presidential candidates Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama call for the United States and other countries to partially boycott the passing of the Olympic torch. However, the United States Olympic athletes are steering clear of the protests and focusing on training for the games. Michael Phelps, a United States Olympic swimmer who won eight medals in the Summer Olympics in 2004, comments: I ve always dreamed of representing my country and that s what this is really about, that s what I am preparing myself for� (Rhoads et al, 2008, p. A9).

We discussed the various forms of nationalism and the relationship between sport and corporate nationalism. In this lecture we learn about past figures that made a stand for or against their government leaders to display their own opinion about war and nationalism. For this week entry we had to do choose an athlete or cultural icon that portrayed their own support or protest against our government leaders.
An athlete that made a decision for the support of our government leader was former NFL player Pat Tillman. Tillman gave up millions of dollars of playing in the National Football League to join the United States military and become an Army Ranger. He served for two years until his death on May 28 2004. Tillman reportedly die due to friendly fire. For his services he was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star. The story of Pat Tillman is something that should be respected and honor. The fact that man would turn down millions of dollar and a chance to play a professional sport and have everything handed to him to join the military and fight for his country is very commendable. In fact maybe a very few if any professional athlete would make a decision like that. I totally support his decision to join the military forces simply for the fact that many people including myself would not have the courage to do so. President Bush hailed him as an inspiration on and off the football field, as with all who made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror� (Collier, 2005).

Muhammad Ali is one of the greatest sports figures the world has ever known, both for his accomplishments in the boxing ring and his effect on an entire nation with his rambunctious persona. It is difficult to see that a man, who is so celebrated now, was hated by so many over 40 years ago. They disliked Ali for not being supportive and refusing to fight in the Vietnam War. He did not fight because it was against the teachings of the Islamic Religion. He even accepted jail time as a punishment to prove his seriousness. My favorite quote from Muhammad Ali is I ain t got no quarrel with them Viet Cong They never called me nigger� (Wikipedia). It is such a strong statement that he refused to be forced to fight with the same people in war that he fights against at home. It shows a man who will stand by his morals no matter how strong the majority feels. Muhammad Ali was not the type of person who would fall into the false patriotism that the media often tries to create during times of war. In Media Propaganda and Spectacle in the War in Iraq, Kellner writes He had no convincing arguments, nothing new to communicate, and just repeated the same tired clichés over and over� when discussing President Bush s plan to invade Iraq. For a majority, this was a speech in which Americans became extra patriotic and began to see a point� to the war; however, I am sure that a similar speech was made to legitimize the Vietnam War. Ali was able to read between the lines and took a stand for what he believed in. Out of all the fights that Muhammad Ali had as one of the world s greatest boxers, I idolize him most for being the one to say no� to the fight he was unwilling to take.

As an, athlete how much of your soul do you have to give up just so you can make a living? I think it s a shame that we live in a time when athletes are afraid to speak out because of the short leash that they are on. If an athlete doesn t stand for the national anthem people say, he/she doesn t support our troops� or that he/she� is a traitor. It doesn t stop there, athletes are even more afraid to speak out because of fear of losing endorsements. An example of an athlete not able to speak freely against oppression is Jessica Mendoza.
Jessica Mendoza, a softball player for the U.S Olympic team, is one of many athletes to be apart of team Darfur, a coalition of over 200 athletes to raise awareness of the killings in Darfur. However when it comes to speaking out publicly about Chinas policy in Sudan, Darfur Mendoza is not about to go into China and tell their government what to do�
I fully support Jessica Mendoza for publicly raising awareness about the killings occurring in Darfur, and she is doing more than many athletes are, but it s a shame that she is neglecting to speak out against Chinas policy in Darfur as well as Tibet. As an athlete participating in the Olympic games taking place in China there is no better platform for her to voice her opinion. With the countless reasons to protest China why doesn t she?
Could it be that her sponsor, Nike has a major marketing presence in China�? It isn t a secret that Nike has for a long time established a majority of their manufacturing in China. As a matter of fact, China is Nike s largest single sourcing country with about 210,000 employees. It is no wonder than, that their hasn t been a larger outcry by athletes sponsored by Nike to publicly protest China.
It is obvious that she decided not to protest the Chinese government because of the fear of losing her endorsements. If an Olympic softball player (nothing against softball) is afraid to speak her mind because of the short leash she is on from her sponsors, then imagine the pressure that athletes like Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Tiger Woods and other superstar athletes are under. I applaud that Mendoza is using her notoriety to protest the horrors occurring in Darfur, but I think that this is overshadowed by the fact that she is afraid to say anything that might jeopardize her sponsorship.
Many athletes are under a lot of pressures from both sides. Many want them to protest and others want them to keep their mouth shut. One of the principles we hold dear in this country is freedom of speech�, but how free is the speech� of athletes that will lose their livelihood for speaking their minds? It seems like Mendoza s decision to stay quiet (with regard to the Chinese government) is a microcosm for many professional athletes as well as many professionals. The values of our society need to be re-evaluated and the public and sponsors need to re-educate themselves on the constitution.

When discussing the issue of government and sports, and how they are inevitably intertwined, it is difficult not to discuss those athletes that have either taken a stand for or against the decisions this nation has made. One of the most notorious athletes for doing this exact thing was Muhammad Ali. During his generation he was very adamant about his opposition about the War in Vietnam, and that he would not fight a war he did not believe in. However, the athlete that I would like to discuss, and that has had one of the largest impacts on my generation is Pat Tillman.
Pat Tillman was a professional football player, playing in the NFL. He played college ball at Arizona State University, when the Arizona Cardinals drafted him in the seventh round of the NFL draft. He was playing for the Cardinals when the attacks on September 11th occurred. Pat Tillman then did what most people would only think of doing, but would never dare doing. In showing his support for this nation and the situation we were in. He turned down the Cardinals new contract offer of 3.5 million dollars to enlist in the U.S. Army. He obviously felt compelled to play a role in this nation s decision to wage a war on terror. In April of 2004, Pat Tillman died in Afghanistan under an avalanche of suspicion. The Bush administration used the Tillman story to drum up support for the war.
When I first heard about this story, I was moved. I remember thinking about my place in this world, and how those attacks made me feel. I was one of those people thinking about how to support this war on terror, but it was not a three and a half million dollar contract that I could not give up. It was the comforts we all take for granted, being able to get an education, playing college hockey, and even sleeping in my own bed. My issue with this story is not particularly with Pat Tillman. I believe his decision to support this administrations war on terror was courageous, and shows the courage most of our men and women in the armed forces display everyday. I also believe that most everyone can support the initial war efforts after September 11th. What bothers me is how this administration used the story to manipulate the people of this nation to support its second invasion of Iraq. I realize that governments have used stories like this, along with other propaganda techniques in order to drum up support their political agendas. The problem is that this administration has disregard ethical ways in conveying those ideas.
When Tillman enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2002 he did so, on the basis that we were going to go after terrorists that conducted these attacks against us. The invasion of Iraq made no sense. There was no, and still is no evidence that anyone from Iraq has had anything to do with the terror attacks on 9/11. In an article by Robert Collier he stated that Interviews also show a side of Pat Tillman not widely known a fiercely independent thinker who enlisted, fought and died in service to his country yet was critical of President Bush and opposed the war in Iraq, where he served a tour of duty�(2005, p.1).

I agree with Safchick787. Our American nation is greatly represent in sporting events. I agree that not only is our flag and anthem a huge part of our symbolic unity and patriotism, but also our military since 9/11 has become even more important at many events. It is noticeable also at many games that American flags are sometimes put on some of the shirts or even other various comments about American. At a capitals game once, they even gave out camouflage Washington Capitals baseball caps.

America uses many aspects in life to show the world the meaning of what American life stands for and means. It is presented through our red, white, and blue colors, our country s flag, our national anthem, the pledge of allegiance, and also through various forms of entertainment. In most professional sporting events within the United States, it is common to hear the singing or playing of the national anthem before the begging of the game. Also, in an indoor arena, there is usually an American flag hanging in some part of the ceiling. Currently America also uses our military as our prime symbol of patriotism and unity more than the national anthem or flag.

This past season, I purchased season tickets for the Washington Capitals. As everyone knows, ice hockey is a prominent sport among mainly Canadians, Russians, and Americans. Here in North American, you will typically see a United States flag and a Canadian flag hung in every arena those supports a hockey team. Minutes before the start of the game, the crowd at the Verizon Center stands and faces the hanging flag to prepare for the singing of our United States anthem. If a Canadian team were present, the Canadian anthem would be sung as well. While the anthem is being sung, the Verizon Center monitors and screens are all showing pictures of our star-spangled banner. Whether fans, rivals, or foreigners, everyone stands at this one moment to feel patriotic and united. The flag is the main symbol of what it means to be and live as an American.

Although the star-spangled banner can be considered the prime example of our American nation, there are other symbols used to represent ourselves as a country. American is an ongoing war within Iraq because of various political and social issues. Americans also believe this could also be a war based on the retaliation of our tragic events which occurred on the memorable September 11th. The main symbol of our war is our American soldiers representing and defending our country. If anyone has ever attended a game at the Verizon Center, one will notice that there always comes a time where the announcer takes a moment to pay tribute to our soldiers at war. This is usually followed by point the cameras towards injured soldiers from Walter Reed whom were invited to the game. Following their acknowledgement, there usually is a entire standing ovation from the crowd. During the beginning of the season, they announced in an article that the roar from the crowd as a standing ovation to the soldiers was louder than that of the anthem or the home team scoring a game that night. More proof of this connection between sports, the American nation, and military can be seen within the scandal of Pat Tillman. He was an NFL star who left in order to serve duty in war. In an article called, Pat Tillman, Our Here,� there was a posted comment by our President saying that he was an inspiration on and off the field, as with all who made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror� (Zirin, para5). This here was a clear statement that sports have a clear connection with patriotism and sacrifice.

While our flag is still our prime symbol of the American nation, it is seen that many other things have also taken a part in becoming symbolic. Soldiers have always been the representation of a country, but not as strong as our American soldiers are now. At many games, fans were giving camouflage baseball caps upon entry as well as hockey pucks supporting the Canadian troops helping American overseas. I believe American soldiers are the most respected symbol of America than anything else. In arms, they stand united in order to represent not only our country in a war, but also our country in political events , social events, and sporting events.

I agree with cari in that everyone everywhere shows some form of patriotism, some more extensive then others. After september 11th, you couldnt anywhere without seeing an american flag somewhere on something. ITs sad that 7 years later that symbolism has changed emmensely, and what was once a tradegy in need of rememberance, is almost to some people a burden that need only to be remembered on days of mass media gatherings and attention hogging holidays. It just goes to show how fake our country really is.

All the years that I have been coming to Camden Yards, I have never actually watched the game and studied the stadium and fans from the same perspective as I have this year following my enrollment in this course. So far this season ive been to four Orioles games, and each one has had its own ups and downs. The most recent game I attended however fit in perfectly with this week s blog. It was against the Toronto Blue Jays, and what better way to discuss national patriotism and its methods then to play against a team from a neighboring country? The game started off with the singing of the Canadian national anthem, which obviously drew an ignorant raucous boo from the 10,000 or so fans in attendance. What else would you expect from a country so bent on physical appearance and coercive power? After the national anthem, which was obviously exaggerated by the crowd in order to show the Canadian quartet singing both anthems which country is better, the orioles took the field to a loud applause. The comedic thing of this whole process, is that the orioles can barely fill their stands a quarter of the way full throughout the season, that is until the Red Sox or Yankees come to town, and in turn the stands are packed to the brim with the opposing teams loyal fans. However, the 10 thousand or so odd fans that were out to this game on a chilly Tuesday evening tried their absolute best to humiliate the country of Canada during its national anthem.
Camden Yards is a patriotic institution, with the American Flag flying high and American symbols standing at every entrance and exit, yet the actual loyalty portrayed by its fans is that of ignorance and stupidity.

Recently, safety Caleb Campbell from the Army football team has brought about an uproar between sports and politics. He was drafted in the seventh round over the weekend by the Detroit Lions, and is currently excused from active duty while he pursues his career in the National Football League. There is mixed emotions on this topic, mainly because there are people who believe signing on to defend our country means doing just that, not skipping out because you decided you would rather pursue your football career. (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-nfldraftnotebook&prov=ap&type=lgns) I m not sure exactly how I feel on this topic, mainly because In watching the interview of the Academy Dean at West Point, I feel the main objective of sending Campbell to the NFL and the recruiting/reserves post is to give the image of the military a boost, and create better positioning on the pyramid of career pathways in young adolescents. I think that in Zirin s article about Pat Tillman, it shows the way that most Americans view our politically incorrect� system of action. Pat died in service to his country yet was critical of President Bush and opposed the war in Iraq, where he served a tour of duty� (Zirin pg.1 2005) In some way or another, we all are critical of how our nation is run and the active or nonactive parts we may play in providing our share of patriotic symbolism. I know that if I could make a change, I would start with the ignorance that americans embody toward other nations and other cultures.

Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay, is a renowned boxer in America. He is very famous and really defined boxing during his time in the ring. However, he is also very well know for his active protest of the Vietnam War. He actively stood up against being drafted into the war because of his association with the Nation of Islam. With Ali's refusal to be drafted came suspension by the New York State Athletic Commission as well as stripping him of his title.

It is often assumed that politics are separate from sports. This is definitely untrue, even in the case of Muhammad Ali. Clearly if the two were separate, his political stance would not have impacted his sporting career. He was consequently suspended from boxing because of his political views.

I would agree with the decision of Ali to not be drafted. America claims that we are free, but when they impose drafts on the American people, is that really freedom. We should be allowed to decide if we want to participate in a war or any other political situations. Ali had very strict religious beliefs that were not given any consideration when he was forced into the draft. He stood behind what he believed what right and paid with his athletic career. However, his suspension was later renounced and he was once again allowed to box.

The infuence of politics on sports is clear in America. Many athletes stand up against certain political situations but because of their notariety are usually shunned by America. Athletes are people to and should be allowed to partake in and believe in what they feel is true, not what the American people want them to believe in.

I agree with what mwenke said about patriotic acts at Camden yards "After attending several baseball games at Camden yards, it is safe to say that the Orioles and the city of Baltimore participate in a lot of patriotic acts throughout the baseball game. For example, the hotdogs are referred to as the all American ballpark franks� and during the seventh inning stretch, Camden Yards has been known to play the song God Bless America� as well as Take me out to the ballgame.� Coming to America� by Neil Diamond has also been played during the seventh inning stretch as well as Thank God I m a Country Boy.� Before every game opening pitch the national anthem is sung and the flag is clearly displayed in the outfield at all times" I have been to many baseball games at Cambden Yards and I definitely notice this as well. I even talked about it in the my paper. Many people, feel very patriotic at these games because they play these songs and I have heard other people say that they love coming here because it puts them in a good mood because of all the patriotic songs.

Political activists come from all over. Groups such as the ACLU, NAACP, and NRA all have major influences on politics. Many make impressive presentations and marks on our political history by the way these groups speak out. That is there job. There is another group though who has such an impact but on a completely different level: celebrities and sports icons. These people have clout in pop culture and are able to reach, sometimes, more than these large political groups.
Muhammad Ali, one of the greatest boxers of all-time, was a valiant fighter in and out of the ring. Ali s boxing career ended with an Olympic gold medal and 9 championship titles! He is the greatest and he would tell you that himself. Ali was a very outspoken fighter. His attitude not only carried him through his matches in the ring; they carried him through his battles with political ideologies.
Muhammad Ali was an Islamic supporter and a member of the Nation of Islam, often called the Black Muslims. His birth name was Cassius Clay. He later would change his name to Muhammad Ali because he wanted to destroy the name given by his ancestor s enslavement. With this name change, a whole new man developed who was very out spoken against black oppression and brought light to global development. Ali would hold his title fights in countries that were war-torn and troubled to bring attention to their need.
Although very bold in his moves, Ali was an amazing political advocate as well as sports figure. For most of us, he's not the Greatest of All Time simply because he was a skilled fighter. It's because he always stood for something bigger than sport� (Maese 2008). I completely agree with the way Ali handled himself. Being bold and outspoken is what our society needs. Joe Ehrman, a star football player for the Baltimore Colts, once said, Whenever you can show up, stand up, and speak up, that s when the world starts to change.� He could not be more right. Those words that Joe said could not be more right.
However there are other men out there that make a difference without saying anything. Cal Ripken, Jr. for example is one of those men. Cal has a presence about him that lets you know that he cares for what is going on in our world. He has taken the Little League baseball program of the United States and turned it upside down from strictly coaching the fundamentals. Without being very outspoken, Cal has made a difference.
To be passive or aggressive, the Ripken or Ali approach is a tough decision for me to make. I have been placed in both situations when giving an opinion on our ever-changing world. I can t say that one has been more beneficial than the other. I think, however, there is one similarity between both types of delivery. Both people had a purpose and whole-heartedly cared about it.

In reference to Mike VonLange, I thought it was interesting how you related this topic to Muhammad Ali. When I read your blog I was impressed you made this connection.

Over spring break this year, I attended a Nets vs. Nuggets game. The game took place at the newly named, IZOD Center. IZOD became the new naming rights sponsor of the old Continental Airlines Arena. IZOD is contemporary American apparel company. The clothing by IZOD is known for its modern American look. While at the game, a number of things represented nationalism and patriotism. The colors alone of the New Jersey Nets, symbolize America. The colors red, white, and blue were all over the arena. I was able to sit in a box seat at that game. Inside the box, I had a great view of the entire arena and the surroundings. By attending the game, I was able to see a few aspects of the game that is not shown on television when watching it at home. Before the game started there was a pre-show where they announced the players of the New Jersey Nets. The arena s lights went out and flashing lights of red, blue, and white exploded all over. That to me, showed a sense of pride in our team and our country. After the pre-show, everyone was told to rise. Everyone became silent, stood united as one, hats off, facing the flag, and began to sing the national anthem. It was sung by a local performer. During the anthem, I believe people, including myself, reflect back and remember the sacrifices people made for this country. It shows the history of our country and what American citizens fought for to be able to watch this game today. The national anthem unites both teams before the competition, showing everyone that we are one country and we are proud to be a part of it. Other aspects of the game that represent nationalism are the use of the American flag on things sold at the game. Jerseys, concession items, and souvenirs are just a few examples of the representation of the American flag.
Since September, 11th, sporting events have changed a lot. The security measures have increased, fan behavior has changed, and the concessions have been cut back, such as alcohol. Sports and militaristic nationalism has been presented a lot in sport more since 9/11. The use of national symbols, clips from over seas, and political support has been shown in sports heavily as well. Kellner said in his article, Media Propaganda and Spectacle in the War of Iraq: A critique of U.S Broadcasting Networks, the 2003 Iraq war was a major global media event constructed very differently by varying broadcasting networks in diverse parts of the world� (Kellner, 2004). I believe that sports and politics are related and they are shown in sport. American nationalism, either by the national anthem or political issues such as the war, are presented to us through sport and at sporting events.

Over the past week I have been watching basketball, hockey and baseball. Americas favorite pastime being baseball really does show through the broadcast of the sport that if you are watching you should be patriotic. The games always start with the national anthem, while this is being performed by a professional they camera focuses in on the flag, then give wide angles of the crowd and always the players. All standing astute with their hands over their hearts while being hatless forget about sitting through the anthem, if you don t want a beer poured on your head. I guarantee some redneck would say something like, What you don t support America? Then you can get out.� After the game begins you will notice while fading to commercial there is always a shot of the flag blowing in the distance, or a shot of the great American city where the game is being held. Throughout the broadcast it s very common to have a dedication clip to some past American hero, usually sport related, but always portrayed as a true patriot to the United States. The marketing during the game is also aimed at the pro-American consumer. The big truck ads talking about how this is our country or a shot of some small town boy come back from war. There are also the advertisements glorifying the military, with the slogan army of one . It s all hidden pro-American propaganda, while the heart of it all is corporate capitalism. After the game during an interview you can often catch someone saying the words god bless America . So let s not bless the rest of the world, just America? After analysis of this topic, its clear that America uses sport as a huge self promotion tool, and uses it quite effectively.

I just wanted to touch on a point from Stephanie. I think that you had an interesting observation on how you did not see the token signs of American nationalism watching the game and saw the corporate signs however. I liked how you brought up the world series and that they didnt show the anthem uring the game you watched but it would def. be on during the World Series. Good points to bring up

When thinking about sports in general, nationalism is not an area that is thought of as a prominent part of sports. It goes along with the notion that most of us have that sports and politics do not mix and that sports act as a safe harbor from the political and nationalistic world. Yet, signs exist in our arenas and on our athletes that lead one to believe that if you look at the sports world with open eyes, it is easy to see all of the nationalistic signs around.
The example that shines a light on the United States nationalistic ideas and acts as an observation into the nationalistic chapter is the sport of hockey. Yes hockey, the sport that most would consider a ½ sport, but is also an incredibly diverse sport with players spanning several continents and many countries. The reason for choosing hockey is because I attended the Capitals playoff game a couple of Sundays ago. While watching, even before this class on nationalism, I noticed two interesting items that stood out to me. The first is that only the American and Canadian flag hung in the rafters of the Verizon Center. While this may not seem like something that is wrong or something that puts the United States across as a superpower, these flags impacted me, due to the fact that many hockey players are from Russia, Sweden, and other European countries. Understanding that this is an American hockey league and that all of the teams are either American or Canadian, I can understand how those are the two flags hanging. Yet, what about the Russian players who never have their homeland acknowledged, minus the Olympics. While I know that playing each player on the teams national anthem would take hours in some cases, maybe it would be worth playing a different anthem with the American national anthem from time to time.
The next observation that I noted was how some players who are not U.S. born do not give their full attention to the Star Spangled Banner. Sticking with the same hockey game, while the whole arena is standing up and listening to the national anthem with the players standing at the blue line, before the anthem finished Alexander Ovechkin was skating around. I may have been of the only people in the arena to notice this and maybe he was just pumped up for the game, but why should he wait on the line for the anthem to finish? Ovechkin is a Russian player and while he does play for an American hockey team, should he have to honor our country? Honestly, Ovechkin should have stayed on the line with the rest of his teammates and waited for the anthem to finish, but I can see where he would think about what allegiance he even has to our flag.
So while I went to the Verizon Center on that Sunday to watch a playoff hockey game, I came away with my own observations regarding nationalism in sports. Through this one example from hockey, it has forced me to go back and to reflect on other experiences in which nationalism could have played a huge role in sports.

In response to ewilson, I agree with what you said. You are right, this country does have its faults but I think almost everything in this world has its faults. No one person or one thing is perfect. This country is great, an certain times call for more attempts to come together as one to heal. We have almost the same belief about the draft. Great writing, and I really did enjoy reading it.

No other entertainer in our country's history has had as great of an impact as the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley. Millions of people each year visit Graceland, his home where he was buried. Elvis not only was the greatest entertainer of all time, but was also an American icon. Elvis grew up in poverty, but because of his talent, hard work, and connections, he was able to make it big. Elvis was good looking, had a sense of humor, was an entertainer/actor and supported government leaders. There are many pictures of Elvis shaking hands with the president and from reading books, Elvis was definitely supportive of our government leaders. Even with all his fame and glory, Elvis still went into the army, because of the draft. I think this was a huge reason why Elvis was so loved and Muhammad Ali was so hated at their respective times around the draft. Elvis did not complain about having to go into the army, he just did it, and made the best of it. He showed the world that if his country needed him, he would fight along side his fellow man. Muhammad Ali on the other hand went against government leaders and dodged the draft. In my opinion, it isn't right that Muhammad Ali was dodging the draft, because if he lived here and made his career here by making money in the sport of boxing, then he should support the decisions that the leaders of our country make.
What makes our country so great, and why we should celebrate it, is the fact that we have freedom and no longer must have a draft. We have individuals in our army who want to serve, and many who want to be in the Middle East in order to eliminate these terrorist groups who are a tremendous threat to this country. "President Bush's ultimatum was simple: either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists" (FalcosaundSilk 2). America is the greatest country on the face of the earth, so why not celebrate it? If other countries envy us, and want to kill us all because of our way of life, then so be it, but we must protect ourselves from that same envy. I think our soldiers have done an amazing job, and while the war hasn't gone exactly has planned, we are doing well. I do feel we should sing the national anthem and raise the flag high before each and every sporting event or gathering. It is a symbol of freedom, pride, and it allows individuals to take a few minutes out of their day to pay their respects to how this country got to where it is today. If this country was forced to have a draft, I would get in line without complaint. I live here, I am free, and I take advantage of the opportunity this country provides me with, so why would I not fight for it.

In response to Chris Richards, I don't think we should consider playing anthems of other countries at sporting events here in the US. Even though there may be a lot of people from a specific country on a team, they are still playing in the United States. At the Olympics, I think it is appropriate to play multiple anthems because it is an event based on the sharing of cultures. I think we should stick to our anthem here in the US to keep the patriotic feeling it gives off.

Last Friday, I attended a game at Camden Yards. The Orioles were playing the Yankees, and the stadium was the fullest it has been in a long time. As I gave some thought to my experience here, I can think of ways that the American nation was presented. First, flying high over the stadium were two American flags. The flags were located above the scoreboard, which can be easily seen each time the crowd checks out the stats of the game. The national anthem was played before the start of the game. I noticed that there were people in the ball park wearing jerseys that had the American flag sewn onto them. The foods at the concession stands were all American. Going to a baseball game is an American pastime. When you think of going to the ball park, a ball park hot dog comes to mind. Camden Yards sells Esskay hot dogs at all the stands. The menu consists of various other American-type foods such as hamburgers, French fries, chicken fingers, and soft pretzels. American beers such as Budweiser, Miller, and Coors were served as well. At each game, the same song is played during the seventh inning stretch- Thank God I m a Country Boy.� This song s lyrics show the life of country living in the United States. Thanking God for this promotes the happy American lifestyle.
After 9/11, symbols of nationalism and pride for America were more prevalent. Companies produced all kinds of merchandise with American flags and the slogan Never Forget.� Media, music, and entertainment promoted nationalism and uniting together to overcome the horrific event. The sporting world was not any different. Teams at all levels from little league to major league put American flags on their uniforms. The flag was framed as a symbol of future hope, bound with the discursive reconstitution of nation post-9/11,� (Falcous and Silk, 2005). The American flag had extra meaning in our country at this time. When the flag that was recovered from Ground Zero was displayed at the Super Bowl and the Olympics, people felt greater emotion when they saw the flag. When the national anthem was sung before sporting events, our country felt a deeper connection with the lyrics. Seven years later, the flag and symbols of America are displayed, but people are much more passive to them. The flags that fly over Camden Yards are not seen the same way they were immediately post-9/11. The crowd is less eager to get up and remove their caps to show respect while the national anthem is played. Now, halftime shows are much less likely to focus on songs of freedom as opposed to seven years ago. I think it is interesting how these nationalistic symbols change in meaning over the years. It is almost as if we are numb to the methods used to promote nationalism unless there is a tragedy or deeper meaning behind it.
On the other hand, I think these methods to remind us of the country we come from and the culture we represent should be used in the way they are. I think it is appropriate to sing or play the national anthem before sporting events. This short amount of time where no one moves or speaks allows us to reflect on the opportunities we have as American citizens. It creates a unity among the crowd because for a short amount of time, we are all doing the same thing- honoring our country s flag. Currently, it gives us time to think about the war the US is involved in and think of those fighting in it. The American foods, songs, and symbols should always be associated with sports because they help us develop pastimes as a culture. They provide us with a means to identify with one another as Americans, as well as sports fans and athletes. I do not think sports would have the same meaning without the nationalism that ties into them.

I agree with clax1027 and that people like to associate themselves with things that are American, especially after the events that took place on 9/11. A fantastic outlet for nationalism is sports which do explain the relationship between the two, and it also provides a stronger bond between sports fans that goes beyond the game.

After attending several baseball games at Camden yards, it is safe to say that the Orioles and the city of Baltimore participate in a lot of patriotic acts throughout the baseball game. For example, the hotdogs are referred to as the all American ballpark franks� and during the seventh inning stretch, Camden Yards has been known to play the song God Bless America� as well as Take me out to the ballgame.� Coming to America� by Neil Diamond has also been played during the seventh inning stretch as well as Thank God I m a Country Boy.� Before every game opening pitch the national anthem is sung and the flag is clearly displayed in the outfield at all times. The Washington D.C. Nationals also obviously support American patriotism if we only stop to notice their team name. Their uniforms also support their team name, Nationals� because they are of course, red, white and blue.
There have been countless athletes and celebrities in the past and of today that have been and are currently involved in politics and our government, and who are very patriotic. For example, Al Leiter, the New York Mets all-star, campaigned for George W. Bush during the 2000 election. He has donated millions to kid causes, the majority of it put towards foundations he and his wife have started, organized, and funded themselves. He and his wife also established a tutoring program in Harlem and donated $100,000 towards the construction of a little league baseball field in his hometown. Leiter also has been rumored to have been building a campaign for the U.S. senate in 2008 from his home in New Jersey. I agree with the ways in which Leiter and his wife have taken action to support different causes that they believe in. I think it is fantastic that Leiter and his wife have established their own charitable foundations to help the less fortunate, and I admire their selflessness they show by contributing the large amounts of money towards helping others. For example, their tutoring program and the money they donated towards building children a new baseball diamond in Leiter s hometown of Toms River, New Jersey. I also like that Leiter supported the Presidential candidate of his choice by campaigning for Bush in the 2000 election. Leiter and his wife are very active and involved and have donated millions of dollars as well as hundreds of hours towards helping people and changing our nation for the better. Professional athletes have such a presence in our society, and have the potential to bring change, especially amongst our youth. Children look up to professional athletes and aspire to be just like them. It would be a step in the right direction if more athletes followed in Leiter and his wife s footsteps and became more politically active. Professional athletes certainly have the means to fund or donate to any projects or foundations they wish to support and they also have the celebrity status to help promote the causes and encourage others to become involved as well.

I agree with Travis Hubbard when he talks about the National Anthem as a common ground between (rival) teams. I think that if I wasn't so focused on the game I am about to play, I would be able to actually listen to the words, see the crowds reactions and watch how it brings people together.

This past weekend, the lacrosse team traveled to Virginia for our final two in-season games. It is always interesting to watch the different traditions and styles of each teams pre-game routine. When we have games at home in the Jonny Unitas stadium, I expect the same schedule each time: a recorded version of the national anthem is played over the speakers while our team lines up and holds hands, similar to many other teams, and in many other sports.
I always pay attention to other teams when we travel to other universities and colleges. During away games, I have noticed some interesting traditions teams carry. One team shouted during one part of the anthem, which I found really offensive. Other teams seem to not even pay attention at all.
In my opinion though, during our home games, when our announcer says: ladies and gentlemen please rise to honor our flag and the men women fighting for our country � I do not spend that time during the song thinking about the flag, our country or the people who are defending it. In all honesty, most athletes spend that entire time thinking about the game nothing else.
Another point I would like to bring up was also discussed in previous posts; we talked about how closely related sports and politics are. I think the idea of honoring our country before every sporting event is just another example that proves this point. I am very surprised that I do not see more evidence of honoring our country in lacrosse because we are so attached to the idea of intertwining sports with politics. I have yet to see a team with the American flag embroidered on their jerseys.
One thing I have noticed since 9/11 is that instead of just saying, please rise to honor America and our flag�, it has turned into saying something about our troops and the war. I think America justifies adding in the troop/war comments, by wanting to show how American� our sports really are. We use rhetoric to link the idea of sports and politics.
In the piece by Falcous and Silk, it is discussed how national sporting events use the media to show how those sports are tied into politics. I think this is true of most sports. People like to associate themselves with things that are American. An obvious choice is sports, which would explain the close relationship between the two.

I agree with what cari04r says about sports and our country. I think that people make a big deal at sporting events of showing patriotism because sports are a big deal to our country and everyone is involved with them. I remember at certain baseball games and football games I had been too, they would play music and show clips from September 11 aftermath or show clips of the soldiers fighting in the war. And even though not every member of the teams are from America, it is still a celebration of sport being played in our country.� Following 9/11, we all wanted to be united and showing the video clips and hearing songs which remind us of America did just that. The sporting arena is a great place to gain support for both the home team and our country.

In my life I have seen many different types of sporting events ranging from events at the local level to events at the international level. One similarity I have found between all of these events is that nationalism is very popular no matter where you go. At every high school game I went to or played in we had the national anthem and the raising of the flag before the game started. The same thing occurred at a U.S. Men s National Soccer game when they played England in a world cup qualifier almost 10 years ago. At this game both the U.S. National Anthem and England s National Anthem were played to honor all of the athletes playing and not just the Americans. I feel that the playing of the national anthems and flying the flags gives honor to the athletes who put it all on the line for their countries team. The athletes then repay the honor given by performing well during the game.
Another way we show our nationalism in sports is the use of American flags on uniforms and helmets. After 9/11, I saw a dramatic increase in the number of American flags at sporting events. Flags started appearing on helmets, jerseys, and even the fields. I remember for my lacrosse team in high school had to put American flag stickers on our helmets and have our mom s iron on American flags to our jerseys and shorts. All of the professional teams did basically the same thing with flags. If you look closely enough at the many different uniforms being worn now in sports, I m sure that somewhere on it, whether big or small, you will find an American Flag.
We also see our nation s sports as our way of showing our country s strength. The Olympics are a perfect example of this. Every two years there is an Olympic games, winter or summer, at which athletes from all over the world compete against each other to try and bring home the most medals for their country. The medal count� as it is called, is closely watched throughout the games and at the end the country with the most gold medals is said to have won it all and then silver medals and so on. If your country doesn t do very good in the Olympics, you probably wouldn t be too happy and you might think that your country is weak. However, if your country does well, then most likely you will boast at how good your country is and how strong they are athletically.
Great athletic events, by some, are compared to the great battles of the medieval times. Two armies (teams or athletes) meet on the battlefield (field, court, or track) and battle it out (play each other competitively) until one army (team) has won. Back when the U.S. Hockey team beat the Russian team, we saw it as a great battle which the U.S. prevailed in during the Cold War. The media as well as politicians took a hockey game and turned it into a major turning point during the Cold War.
As you can see, nationalism is everywhere in sports, for this country and any other. We, as countries like to see our athletes succeed and we will do almost anything to see that happen. We will paste our flags, sing our songs, and cheer on our players anytime, anywhere if we think that it will help bring us victory.

I have to agree with Travis Hubbard. The playing of the National Anthem is a way of honoring everyone that has fought and died for this country and if you can t even take your hat off at a game to acknowledge that is pretty pathetic. This country would be absolutely nothing if it were not for all the men and women that fought for our country

Recently I was at home and I decided to go and watch a high school baseball game. The game was in Frederick County and it was Walkersville (my old high school) vs. Thomas Johnson High School. There was the traditional playing of the National Anthem at the beginning of the game. I did not find this unusual because every high school or college sport I played there was the playing of the National Anthem before every game or contest. I think that it is a great thing to play the National Anthem before every sporting contest or game because even though the teams may despise each other, the one thing that they have in common is that they are citizens of the United States. I know to some people the playing of the National Anthem is not a big deal, being that I see a lot of people at sporting events that don t even have the respect to take their hat off during the playing of the National Anthem. In my opinion the playing of the National Anthem is a time where athletes and spectators alike can take the time and remember the opportunities that this country has given us and the people that have given the ultimate sacrifice for the United States. This is just my opinion and I know that there are people out there who don t even think the National Anthem should not be played at sporting events, but I think that it should. Also before the start of the game there was a moment of silence for all of the students who where killed at the campus shooting about a year ago, this moment of silence was continued for all of the soldiers who were over in Iraq and the ones that have died protecting this country and its people. This was not necessarily needed because after all it was just a high school baseball game, but I thought it was great that there was a moment of silence because it shows that people still care about each other even if they have never have met. There was a lot of red white and blue at the game because Thomas Johnson s colors were red white and blue, so at the game there were a lot of American flags flying around. I think that it is necessary to have patriotism at sporting events because it reminds of people of why they are in this country, and what sacrifices others have made so they we can be here. From watching television I did notice that many different television networks portrayed the war in Iraq very differently.
The 2003 Iraq war was a major global media event constructed very differently by varying broadcasting networks in diverse parts of the world�( Kellner 2004). Once the war was going on over in Iraq my friends and I noticed that certain stations portrayed the war from very different perspectives, some made it look like a good thing and others made it look like a terrible thing. I think that it is great that there different points of views about the war. However I think that playing the National Anthem should be played at all sporting events high school and up.

in response to sruben1
i do agree with what he said about the national anthem. It is a time when fans are united no matter what team you are for

This past weekend, I attended the Orioles vs Yankee baseball game at Camden Yards. When I was walking to my seat behind third base I looked out into right field and the first thing you see is the American flag flying higher than the other two flags and one of those flags was the Maryland state flag. When I got to my seat, I was sitting behind a Yankee fan who was wearing a Yankee jersey. When he lifted up his arm I noticed that there was an American flag stitched to the side of his arm. There was a fan wearing an O s hat next to me who had a little American flag stitched on behind his hat. When the game started we all had to removed our hats and stood for the singing of the national anthem that was sung by a 10 year old girl who is the daughter of a soldier in Iraq (which by the way did an amazing job singing). During the singing of the national anthem there is this one part that the whole crowd yells "O" to show support for the home team. After hearing that and making the observations I started to reminded on how this form of patriotism came to be about. I began to think about how America as a nation is presented just in this single baseball game.

Ever since the terrorist's attacks on September 11, 2001 more emphasis has been placed on America through sporting events such as this baseball game that we are united as a country and America is still has its dominance. We all can remember where we were on that day and what we were doing. That moment changed everyone's lives. At that point we had hatred to the people who did this. According to the Silk article " The destruction of terrorists-variously Al Quida, the Taliban, fundamentalists, Arabs, Muslims and Islam in the media discourse of the time-became part of the contemporary production of the US identity in this historically contextualized moment". I am going to have to agree with him at that time even though the attacks did not effect me personally but I had friends who did lose loved ones, it made me just want to punch anyone that was of middle eastern decent in the face. As the years went on I began to move on slowly as well as the rest of the country. Seven years later and an on going war in Iraq that still seems to have no end we must still continue to show our patriotism for our troops even if we believe the war is a lost cause. It is through sporting events when we can honor our troops with the whole nation watching. We want our troops to feel appreciated and not forgotten. By showing some sort of patriotism before each sporting event whether it will be having the American flag stitched to your jersey or hat or having a little girl sing the national that is the daughter of one of the soldiers in Iraq is fine be me. Having this form nationalism at every sporting spectacle is shows how this nation in united as a country.

The Orioles played the Yankees all weekend, bringing in a lot more interest than Camden Yards has seen so far this season. As always, at the start of the game, everyone is asked to stand and remove their hats for the playing of the National Anthem. Of course, in Baltimore, a resounding �Oh� is added to the final verse of the national anthem, which adds to the feeling of togetherness in how we feel about our country. It s interesting that even the foreign players, which are prevalent in the league now, take a liking to this tradition. They all politely stand at attention throughout it, and seem to enjoy the spectator s rendition of the song. This is just the beginning of the patriotic acts portrayed at the event. There are visible flags in an around the stadium, as well as on the digital scoreboard over the outfield. Even much of the lettering around the stadium is in red, white, and/or blue. There are songs played throughout the game, many of which referring to the lifestyle we live in this country. Of course, in American tradition, hotdogs and beer are the staple food and drink seen in the hands of the fans. Although the beers have gotten deeper, and the hot dogs have grown longer over the years, they ve never gone out of style. When combined with the game of baseball, you seem as all-American as it gets. That is part of the entire experience.
Because so many people attend sporting events, watch them on television, or keep track of them via the internet, it is an excellent method of advertising everything, as we see constantly. This applies to patriotism and the symbolizing of American ways as well. Having the national anthem played at the highest levels or sports makes the players as well as the audience feel that they are in fact playing for their country, representing it to their best ability. Everyone wants to feel proud of what they have and where they are from.

In response to sruben1
I agree about what you said about the National Anthem is it really a time fans united no matter what team you want to win. Great point about the food that is served to, I never really even thought about that. Hot dogs and Hamburgers are the back bone of the American cuisine. And food courts because who doesn t like to eat till they can t move.

I recently attended the Washington Capitals first game of their playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers. While at the game I there were numerous ways in which the American nation was presented both to the crowd and the players. The fact that they are the capitals and they play in Washington makes it impossible to go to one of their games and not be presented America in a celebratory way.
The capitals jerseys themselves are the first thing that I see as a tool to how the American nation is presented in sport. First, just look at the Capitals team colors that were plastered all over the arena red, white, and blue. Their jerseys on the Rock the Red� night were bright red with bald eagle emblems on the shoulders of the jerseys. Additionally on the jerseys they have stars located in the logo in reference to the flag. The shear amount of red, white, and blue worn (me included) and on display during the game was excessive. Looking at the Capitals uniforms in almost seemed like the players could be mascots for the United States of America with all the patriotism and nationalism being thrown at you. But then look at the names on the back of the uniforms and you start to realize this might be extreme. I know the players signed up to play in the NHL but at least for the Capitals it just seems like we are wrapping foreign born athletes in the American flag. Speaking of the American flag for some reason at all the Capitals games I have been too a large number of fans bring flags into the games. I am not sure if this is just because we are in D.C. or not but this does not happen at Redskins games.
Prior to the all the Capital s games and this one I have been to the only national anthem that was played was the United States which I find to be rather interesting. Since the NHL is one of the most culturally diverse sporting leagues in the United States why only play one national anthem. Particularly, when you look at the Capitals roster, three (Ovechkin, Semin, Fedorov) of their best players are Russian. However, night in and night out they stand at the blue line and face the flag in respect even though many foreign players are only here during the season. I agree with playing the national anthem at sporting events because I think of it was a celebration of our country. The singing of the Star Spangled Banner is a way to show honor and respect to the people who paved the way for everything we are now able to enjoy. However, with that said because the NHL has such large diversity it may be a good idea to play another countries anthem prior to the game depending the where a majority of players are from. At Verizon Center the only flags flown were of the United States and Canada. I thought this was kind of a show of disrespect when quite a few players are from different countries, but they have decided against putting up there flags. The players who face our flag every night and listen to our national anthem have to be applauded in doing so. Facing the flag for the foreign born players is part of the propaganda model . Post 9/11 American media content� (Falcous, 2005, p. 60) has pushed on people even if have no affiliation with the United States. I mean if they decided to stop facing, standing for the National Anthem our media would chastise them till no end. However, lets not forget even if it may anger them that we do not play there anthem and they face ours, they are coming here collecting millions of dollars. Going through our National Anthem is a small price to pay for the amount of money they make (salary, endorsements) in playing the game they love. From the crowd s perspective playing the national anthem is great it get you ready for the game.
Lastly, while attending the game on the jumbo screen the there was various videos that showed the Washington monument and the capital building. The depictions from the video reiterated how great the city of Washington is and the greatness of the United States. What do the Capital s have in common with the Washington monument, and the Capital building? The numerous methods of presenting the American nation when looking back at it is something a United States citizen would enjoy but if you are not (like the players) it comes off as if we (United States) have a giant foam number 1 finger waving it in the faces of other countries. Granted it probably didn t help that I was in our nation s capital.

For my writing topic I decided on aggressive street sports and the politics behind them. Aggressive street sports are skateboarding, inline skating, BMX, long boarding and scooters. I wanted to write about these sports because they are often forgotten and are highly affected by politics. Cities are constantly sending negative messages to our youth participating in these sports. First, lets look at the issues concerning these sports. Location is the largest issue for the sport and falls under the umbrella of politics. Practicing the sport can be tricky due to the small number of facilities. Most facilities are operated by Parks and Recreation or a corporation. Parks and Recreation only has so many skate-parks! And the privately owned parks usually close down due to financial difficulty. Aggressive sports and other sports such as soccer have about the same number of players! But, soccer has triple the number of fields than aggressive sports have parks. The cities don t want these athletes on public or private property, but also do not want accommodate their needs. So, what you have is a lot of athletes who are getting arrested for using illegal property. Is this fair to put a child into the criminal world for practicing a sport? We lock up kids every day for practicing these sports! We are wasting our valuable police officers with petty crimes that are indirectly caused by the city! Second, once you have been arrest for participation, you have sent a negative message to the athlete! How they take this message is the problem. What options do they have quit the sport, open their own skate park, beg their parents to drive them to the nearest park (if they have parents active in their life) or go back to spot they were arrested at. We arrest and chase away our youth from these illegal properties and then send them back out the next day with still nowhere to practice! Youth who practice these individual sports usually are involved for a reason; these participants don t have parents involved athletically in their life! With 8000 participants in Baltimore city and only one place legal to practice, you are obviously going to have a lot of arrests! Are community is faced with many issues in regards to aggressive sports. Then, these issues are brought before the city council and other political forums. The participants and those who feel violated both have biased opinions based on their experiences. Just as they are biased, so are the political leaders. Once brought fourth to political forums the participants must prove one hundred times over as to why they need a place to practice their sport. Once proven there is still very little help offered!! Yet, if there is something that will benefit the city such as monetary or political advancement then help for either side is more likely. The children are rarely thought of when considering the benefits!!! In Baltimore City the push for more skate-parks has become increasingly more popular after the local news has covered stories on police violence toward youth who participate and the call from citizens in Baltimore to help! Politicians now want in on it as well! No matter which side the politicians choose they want that news coverage! Bottom line is that skateboarding and aggressive sports have been bogged down with negative messages and has left citizens confused about the sport! A kid who wants to participate in these aggressive sports may not be allowed because it s politically� wrong! Well I wonder why? Our society has made these sports into bad� recreational activities that are participated in by criminals! If the public would embrace the sports and give a place to participate we could change the stigma that follows! And we would a lot less youth in the criminal system.

What better way to see American patriotism than at a baseball game. Since after all, baseball is known as American s favorite past time�. Being an avid Red Sox fan I watch pretty much all of the televised games and threw them I have seem various methods that the American nation is portrayed.
The most recent televised game that I watched in entirely was the Red Sox vs. the Yankees. Before the first pitch of the game the national anthem was sung. Hearing the national anthem to many Americans has a much deeper meaning than just the words in the song, even though it is propaganda and represents that the home nation is superior to others (White, 4-16-08 lecture). Many people know someone who is over seas currently fighting the war in Iraq. When people who have loved ones overseas hear the national anthem, I think that it reminds them that what there loved ones are doing overseas is very important and appreciated by Americas. However, people who protest the war when they hear the national anthem might be angered as the nation anthem could remind them of there opinions of the war. The Red Sox uniforms are the colors of the American flag, red, white and blue and thus a representation of American nationalism.
Immediately following 9/11 Americans nationalism rose substantially. There were American flags being flown everywhere. When people protest American pride events such as saluting of the flag, or standing up for the national anthem many Americans are often outraged and angered no matter the reason for the protest. I to am angered when people don t salute the flag, or stand with signs protesting the war in Iraq. My brother is currently in Iraq so this issue of protesting the war and other American traditions for me is pretty one sided. I take offense when people participate in these anti-America activities. After all my brother is risking his life for their freedom, the least they could do is be respectful because asking them to be thankful for what he is doing, would be asking to much.
Unlike Pat Tillman my brother supports the war in Iraq and even voted for Bush in the past election. I think that solders overseas both agree and disagree with what is happening over in Iraq. Pat died in service to his country yet was critical of President Bush and opposed the war in Iraq, where he served a tour of duty� (Zirin pg.1 2005). There is one more difference between the two which I think could be potentially important, their ranks. My brother is a captain and a lawyer thus he is not fighting man to man combat, but his life is still in danger being in Iraq. On the other hand is Tillman, who was a private thus, was on the actual battle field and was literally, fighting for his life.
The issue of protesting or supporting the war is a touchy one. Many American s see people who protest that war in Iraq as being traitors to America.

America is always showing to other countries in some shape or form of how great it is to live in America. In many events that take place in the U.S. there is a reminder whether it s the American flag or if it s a symbol, it is a way that everyone is reminded that they are in the United States. Sporting events are one of the popular examples of patriotism shown. Any sporting event I had viewed or participated in always has the Star Spangled Banner� before the game starts. Players and even spectators must pay respect to the flag by saluting, standing in a certain gesturing position, removing hats, and so on. This type of tradition has been passed down for ages through generations for paying respect to those that fought for creating and developing our country to the present day. The sports that I have participated in or watched are basketball, soccer, football, baseball, track, and bowling all go through the beginning ceremony before a game starts. Many sports have the American flag fly up high to honor what it stands for, but now there are also other flags with the American flag. These flags represent other countries that show respect towards that country and that as a nation we accept other cultures. In each sport there are usually certain flags that will be seen more in one sport than another. This is because a certain culture or ethnicity is more attracted to one sport than another by popularity and icons. Besides just flags and words stating how great America is, but there are now landmarks, structures, and events that are considered Americanized . Baseball has one of the most important stadiums to be built that is very important to the U.S. Fenway Park is home for baseball of Boston Red Socks and also for the All-star games, I always have wished I could go to one game for the All-stars there for the excitement for the game. Every baseball fan that I know wishes to go to Fenway for an all-star game also but price for tickets and traveling is way too much. Originally Fenway Park wasn t very profitable or very popular throughout the U.S. years ago. The stadium took a huge turn point that helped it grow to what it is known as today. the Sox new owners have gained and exercised a lot of clout in dictating changes to their surroundings, and can often start or stop projects, and make politicians jump on command.� (Bernstein, paragraph 5) Sometimes changes are needed to help the economy but also strengthen being proud to be an American. I for one am proud to be born here in America to have freedom and be as individualistic as I want to be. Over the years, I began to notice that there are more and more flags that are going up when sports are being played. The Super bowl is a huge event that all American s love to watch and get involved in. Each year the Super bowl has become increasingly popular throughout the U.S. This event is what I believe the heart of being an American. It is a huge day that we all enjoy of partying, drinking, betting, supporting/not supporting a team, and just enjoying that day of festivities. Growing up we have all been taught and told what is important and what should be embraced to be an American.

I agree that the national anthem is a sign of patriotism. It is especially important to many people during this time of war when so many know someone who is over seas fighting for our freedom right now.

Over the weekend I watched every single NBA playoff game from start to finish. There is a big difference in watching a professional basketball game in person and watching it on television. I recently went to a Washington Wizards game at the Verizon Center. When you go to an NBA game in person, you always get to hear the national anthem before the start of the game. Sometimes, the national anthem is sung by a professional singer or a group of singers. When I went to the game, the national anthem was sung by a local citizen who won a contest to be able to sing at the game. I think that the national anthem is used to promote patriotism and unity. When the national anthem is sung, it is sung to the fans of both teams in attendance. For as long as the singer is performing the song, the fans in attendance are no longer at each others thoughts. For those few minutes, the fans are no longer enemies, and become united as Americans. The national anthem is not the only way that the American nation is represented during a sporting event.
Americans are very big on consuming various types of food products. Nowhere is this more evident then at sporting events. The American institution that makes it possible for all the sports fans to consume their much needed snacks is the food court. When I went to the Wizards game, I couldn t go more then thirty feet without seeing a station that was setup to sell food. The food being sold ranged from nachos and pretzels, to hot dogs and chicken fingers. However, people don t even need to leave their seats in order to get the food they want. Food vendors walk the isle calling out their products in the hopes that they will get to sell their food to the people who are to lazy to get up and get it themselves.
The American nation is represented in sporting events through anthems and institutions. The national anthem plays as a way to unite fans together in rooting for the American spirit. Food courts have become a staple at sporting events across the country.

I have not been to any recent sporting events, nor have I seen any on TV. So I searched on TV for something to watch and nothing is more american than baseball, right? I was sure I would find several synbols to represent the USA. As I watched a baseball game between the Mets and Cubs, I did not see many forms of patriotism that I was sure I would see in the way of anthems/flags/symbols/institutions. At the begininng of the game, there was no singing of the national anthem or sight of the American flag. Maybe because it was not the World Series or it was too soon at the beginning of the season. They got right in to the game and represented several sponsers one of which is an American company, including Goodyear. They of course showed the hot dog and beer stand and several people who were enjoying both, which are typical American symbols. Nothing is more American than hot dogs and beer at a baseball game, right? In between plays they did show American Presidents that represented which one was in office the last time each team won the World Series. That is definitely American symbolism at its best. They have a member of the Chicago Cubs, new or not, I am not sure, but his name is Fukudome from Japan. The commentators discussed if places like China would be developing baseball soon and if so would they be as good (comparing to the USA I suppose). One of them stated it would be maybe 20-30 years and another stepped in and said definitely not for another 30-40 years. They needed more training until they were able to come to American and play on our teams. Is this a form of racism? Could Japanese people not be trained as well as American players? The commentators stated that Fukudome was a little rough around the edges but was a strong hitter. His fans all dressed in Japanese attire and held signs in Japanese writing. He had several fans there supporting him, some Americans and many Japanese. It was really nice to see so many people there supporting one particular player. I wonder if it was because he was Japanese and that country supports him as a player or they just really love baseball. If more Japanese people played would there be more fans in the stands and going to the games? Is baseball still Americans favorite pastime or has football taken that spot? As I surfed through the other sports channels, I was not able to see any more anthems/flags/symbols/institutions that represented USA. I bet later in the season they will start to show more as the big events draw nearer. As long as we are respective of other countries, I think any of these symbols are always positive and supportive of our country.

I completely agree with Mike VonLange...we as Americans partake of the freedoms that others have fought for, and I agree that Mohammed Ali should have done his civic duty like the other honest citizens who were drafted. No one wakes up, and says "I want to be drafted today", but as a member of this society, you must be willing to serve this country when the time comes. I also agree that as a country, we should not honor someone who turned his back on his country when he was called upon.

When I watch a sporting event, such as the Olympics, it s very moving to see evidence of your country s unity and history. When we watched the films in class about the Salt Lake City Olympics, I will admit that some of the nationalistic elements were a little over the top. However, at that point in our nation s history, that was us. That was what we needed, and the best ways we knew to express our unity, freedom and solidarity. Standing in 2008 and looking back to 2001, it seems a bit cheesy, and we even laugh when we hear the passionate speeches, or watch the loaded commercials and segments about our pride and nation. However, I remember the strength of my own feelings at that time incredible disbelief that 9/11 had actually happened, sadness over the events that had occurred and the lives that were lost, and then a strong sense of pride in my nation that was able to carry on and grow closer together. I definitely believe that our country has its faults (not the least of which is the Tillman fiasco described in the article by Robert Collier), but in order to love something, you must be able to realize that it has faults and do what you can to change them. Quite honestly, it is only because we are such an advanced nation that we are able to be critical of its faults at all. With development comes many issues, but those issues are proof that we have reached a certain point of development that most nations have not achieved.
With the displays of national pride and unity, I really can think of no better example than the Olympic Games. We have such a large group of athletes that form our national team, and it s encouraging to see them all in one place for a common goal. The team is America, and I know that that is completely manufactured and a huge piece of propaganda, but sometimes seeing the teams compete as America� is the only way that average Americans can feel that nationalism and feel connected to other citizens. Even with knowing some of the background of the use of national anthems, I still get goosebumps when I see Americans standing together with their hands over their hearts and singing the National Anthem. Only two songs have ever had that effect on me: Amazing Grace, and the National Anthem. It is now a part of our history and our nation to sing the anthem, and I believe that having it sung at sporting events, and displaying our flag, which has been seen on some of the most historical occaisons in the world, is a small way to honor this country that has allowed us the freedom that we take for granted. In the sporting world, the Olympics and otherwise, these national symbols tie us together, athlete and spectator, coach and player, as Americans. We share this country, and I think that standing together to sing the National Anthem and honor our flag is a small reminder of that fact that should be preserved.

September 11, 2001 changed a lot of people s lives in the world and still is until this very day. That was an event that lead to a war and as Kellner said in his article the 2003 Iraq war was a major global media event constructed very differently by varying broadcasting networks in diverse parts of the world�( Kellner 2004). Some viewed the event as a good thing and some viewed the event as a bad thing. However, there is one event that I feel gets pushed back now since the War in Iraq has been going on and I think that is the events of Vietnam. This is an event in which thousands of soldiers lost there lives for and they lost it fighting for our country. One of the things that was imposed during that time frame was a draft and one man that refused the draft and made tons of headlines and still does until this day is Muhammad Ali. Known by many as the greatest boxer of all time and also as a man that talked the talk and walked the walk. Who else could put the line together of float like a butterfly sting like a bee�? That saying alone is one of the most famous sayings around. However, there is something that I really disagree with as far as what Muhammad Ali did during the Vietnam War. When his time came for the draft he refused to go and said it was against his religion to declare war on anyone unless Allah were to say otherwise. This I disagree with because this was a man who was born Cassius Clay and was born in the state of Kentucky. Technically he is considered an American since he was born in Kentucky and actually born into an African American family and that is what his race actually is. He refused to go to war for his country at a time when a lot of other men were going because they were drafted and wanted to stand up and fight for there country. A lot of people have to realize including Muhammad Ali that this is something that unfortunately happens in the world and has been happening for thousands of years. I do not really know a single person that likes war, but unfortunately it is going to occur at some point in our lives whether we want it to or not. Muhammad Ali did not want to go to war, but he was drafted and in all reality he should have went. Having him be publicly open about not wanting to go and gaining media support really helped kind of make things a little more on the edge in United States at that time. He was a guy that was very popular because of his outspokenness and ability to be an excellent boxer, so that just helped him gain even more support for being anti-war. I strongly disagree with his actions and wish that he would have just sucked it up and went into war. I am not saying war is right or that I like war, but at the same time people need to realize that the troops are fighting for you and for their country. They are not looking for an easy way out instead of going to college a lot of them want to defend their country. I know this based off of my best friend who has been over to Iraq three times and luckily made it back each time. He always told me he did not want to be there, but at the same time it is the military and he signed up to defend his country and now the time has come to do so in war. I think that is something that Muhammad Ali should have realized and unfortunately he did not and this country still praises him. He is a guy that took on the United States government ruling of having a draft and then some thirty years later we allow him to light the Olympic Torch in the United States. That is something that has never made sense to me because here is a guy that was once bad mouthing everything his country did, and now we are honoring him by letting him represent our country in the lighting of a world wide sporting event. That is how this country has gotten and it is a shame because Muhammad Ali was wrong he should have been willing to represent his country when called upon.

As discussed in the past, sports and their respective athletes weigh heavy on the American society. When a major sports figure makes a statement about current events, their reputation can forever be enhanced or damaged. A great example of this would be Carlos Delgado. Delgado, a native Puerto Rican, has for the most part of his career, been against American involvement in war. He was against America using islands in Puerto Rico for weapon testing but what made him most famous, besides his bat, was his protest against the American war in Iraq.

In 2004, while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, Delgado refused to stand while the playing of "God Bless America" during the 7th inning stretch causing an outcry nationwide. Delgado would later be booed whenever he played the Yankees, who play the song at every game, with chants such as "USA, USA!" in the background as he was at-bat. Delgado has stated that he is no anti-war nor pro-war but he is for peace and he claimed that this war was a "stupid war". By doing this, he opened the eyes of many fellow ballplayers. Many players, especially foreign players, felt that the song was unnecessary and their was no punishment towards Delgado. Fans were mostly bitter to Delgado as he traveled the country, but people seem to forget easily and he is rarely ever booed now for the statement he made four years ago.

I would agree with the statement that Carlos Delgado made. We have seen in the past, players protesting oversees American involvement by sitting or turning their back during the playing of the national anthem. Baseball did a great job of not punishing Delgado for his actions and other sports organizations, especially the IOC, should look to this as an example. Since baseball did nothing, people eventually forgot about the whole issue and it is almost like it never happened.

I agree with a lot of your comments about the National Anthem-it most certainly seems that we, as athletes, spectators, coaches, etc, should be thanking those who have risked their freedom so we can have the opportunity to play sports. You also make a good point about pick up games with your friends and patriotic events-sport does seem to be a natural way to bring people of all backgrounds together to celebrate our country. And that is supported through everyday athletic events we attend on any level (high school, college, and professional).

This past weekend, I visited a friend at East Stroudsburg University which is a small school located in Pennsylvania. While we were there, we attended my friend's roommates rugby game. At most schools Rugby is a club team and therefore some people do