They Call Me a Patriot

And I Wear It Like a Badge

“They call me a patriot,” they say it as if it’s an insult. Well, let me tell you something—I wear that title with pride because being a patriot means something. It means loving your country enough to stand up for it, protect its values, and ensure its greatness isn’t just a memory but a promise for future generations.

Being a patriot doesn’t mean blind loyalty; it means earned loyalty. I don’t ignore our flaws—I confront them. I don’t shy away from the hard truths—I face them head-on. A true patriot doesn’t just wave the flag; they carry it into battle when needed, whether that battle is on a foreign front or right here at home, defending the ideals this country was built on.

The world wants to mock us, to say patriotism is outdated, even dangerous. But you know what’s dangerous? Apathy. Silence. The fear of standing for something. A patriot isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo, to push for what’s right even when it’s hard, even when it’s unpopular.

To me, being a patriot means working every day to keep the American dream alive—not just for me, but for everyone. It means teaching my kids to believe in freedom, in justice, and in the strength of this great nation. It means showing the world that we’re not just a nation of individuals but a united force, built on grit, determination, and an unshakable belief in liberty.

So, call me a patriot. I’ll own it. I’ll live it. And I’ll fight for it—because this country is worth every ounce of effort I’ve got. And if you feel the same, then maybe it’s time to stop whispering about what we believe and start shouting it for all the world to hear. Let’s remind them what it means to be an American.

As a prologue I thank my Dad, Lt. Col, John F. Vallone, retired USAF and all those who serve or have served our country. You are the truest of patriots. Putting your lives on the line every day to defend out freedoms and protect the country we love and the liberties we so often take for granted.