In 1969 I became a member of the Madison Boy Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps. This was certainly a important phase for me and laid the groundwork for where I am today. Being a member of this organization has been a influence on me to this day. This group played a much bigger role in my life than anything before it. I am lucky that my parents encouraged my membership and that they were part of the parents organization for the corps.
This photo was taken in Madison Wisconsin during the Madison Scouts annual Drums on Parade drum and bugle corps competition event in 1969. For a bunch of kids 11-13 years old, I think we look pretty sharp here.
I am the color guard member presenting the American flag as we passed the judges stand for review. I was incredibly honored that year to be given the position of carrying the American flag. Not only because represented our nation, but also because of the added responsibility that came with it.
It was also an interesting time to exhibit patriotic virtue. The Vietnam war was raging in Asia and so were demonstrations here at home in Madison. Even with that, in this photo you can see people standing up as the flag proceeded by out of respect for what it represents. It is unfortunate that today people pay little attention or respect to the flag of our country.
