Protect Our Flag - A poem by John P. Rainville - United States Army, Retired

Many years ago my brother-in-law, Paul Cabral, introduced me to a longtime friend of his, John Rainville. He met this friend through the United States Army. He and his wife are very kind and caring people. We don't see each other very often, mostly at family functions.  Although there is no blood relation, they are considered family. That's just the kind of people they are. 


John works at the University of Maine in Farmington. Some time ago, the university created quite a stir by allowing a student to place American flags on the floor in a hallway as an "exhibit". To say the least, this caused quite a controversy. Below is a poem written by John concerning our flag. I thought everyone should be able to read it.


Protect Our Flag
By: John P. Rainville

My heart becomes saddened
As some drag you about
Your life being stomped on
By others without a doubt

My eyes start to welter
When I see you set aflame
It floods my mind with thoughts
Of our patriots young and brave

I am happiest when you fly high
Get somber when you fly low
Thank you for draping our veterans
When they reach their final home

This is why I get upset
When I see that you are used
As a tool for free speech
Often twisted torn and abused

Why do some wish to use you
To test my wit and faith
All you ask for is reverence
And be displayed with grace

For some you are a symbol
For others you are a thorn
No matter what the case
Your rights shall not be scorned

But with citizen rights
There must be responsibility
You should have rights too
And be treated with dignity

As long as our nation lives
So do you
It’s time for the rule
To forever protect you

So I ask all citizens
To stand up with me
Send this poem to congress
And demand action immediately

© 2008 by John P. Rainville