This here paper is written by 2nd Year Webelos Scout John Kalatucka hailing from Cub Scout Pack 58 in Hammonton, NJ.

Now I Know Why the Old Men Cry

My friend frank is a Marine serving in Iraq. He was a Boy Scout with my brother.

Frank wrote home and his letter was read at Boy Scouts. In his letter, he said that in all the years he was a Scout he participated in a lot of flag retirement ceremonies, but couldn't understand why the old men would cry.

I myself have wondered why they would have tears in their eyes. I know the flag is important. It's the symbol of our country. I try to respect the flag, but I've never cried at flag retirement ceremonies.

Frank went on to say that the other day his unit saw some action and his friend was killed in front of him. He thought back to the flag retirement ceremonies, and realized that all of the old men who cried were all veterans who saw action.

Now he knows why the old men cry.

He continued to say he hoped that the boys who are now Scouts will never have to know first-hand why the old men cry.

Now I understand that they shed their tears not just for the flag, but for all their friends who fought to keep our country free. I would like to thank every veteran for the liberty that I enjoy.

Now I know a little about why the old men cry.

©2006 John Kalatucka

Please pass this to all your friends. Let the vets know that even the youngest Americans appreciate them!