What is true patriotism?

Dear Editor: As I watched the Fourth of July parade in downtown Safford and marveled at the beautiful and inspiring fireworks display at the Fairgrounds, I had to ask myself, “What is true patriotism?” Is it waving the flag on the Fourth of July? Is it listening to flowery speeches by politicians extolling the freedoms we enjoy in this great country of ours? Is it giving lip service to the great men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to win our freedom as each generation of Americans have had to do?