January 23, 2009

On Point

New leadership faces challenges

By Bill Highlander
Editor

The new political leadership is facing a recession not experienced in many years, a war against terrorism that is continuing, and a national debt that is climbing into the trillions of dollars. The historic inauguration of our 44th president of the United States has brought forth a new era of hope and inspiration to meet the challenges.

As a retired Army officer, I was pleased with President Obama’s appearance at the military ball and his obvious support for the men and women in uniform and their families. I noted with pride some of the soldiers’ comments, their commitment to service and the mission.

The military recently announced that the recruiting goals had been met and I’m sure some cynics will say that’s due to the economy. The economy may be a factor, but the recruits are still volunteering to serve. Reenlistment rates are favorable too.

I keep a sign on my desk that states – I was a soldier, I am a soldier, I will always be a soldier. I salute the new commander in chief and wish him well as he leads the Nation.

I watched the inauguration activities and attended several swearing-in ceremonies for local leaders. I made several observations.

The national festivities included country and western, rock and roll, classical, patriotic songs, genres ac-ross the popular spectrum. Local celebrations fo-cused primarily on Asian, Islamic, and Mexican based ac-tivities, certainly key to our diversity, but I wonder if other parts of our community felt excluded.

I also noted the lack of etiquette and during the ceremonies. Apparently a lot people do not know that when the colors (our national flag) are presented and when the national anthem is sung, the proper protocol is for people to stand and place the right hand over the heart. I saw people continuing to talk, with hands at their side or in their pockets. I would like to see more respect shown at public gatherings.