Colors

There are many things about living on a base that are different than living off base. One of these things is Colors. Every morning at 7:50 there is a blast of trumpets to remind you that colors will be playing. At 8:00 you hear the beginning strains of the National Anthem. You stop, face the flag and pay your respects. This also applies if you are driving. In this case you stop, put on your hazards and also listen. In Japan we play the Japanese National Anthem after the American National Anthem. If you ever get a chance to hear these two Anthems together it is something. Very Beautiful. Sometimes I find myself running to get inside before colors (so I am not late for work) but for the most part I stop. I am proud to take the time to stop and respect the flag that so many have fought and died under. Our freedom has cost many lives and that flag represents the sacrifice and honor of those before us. Of the many military traditions, rules, regulations followed on base this one is one of my favorites.