VFW POST 9143 PATRIOTS PEN ESSAY CONTEST
ALEXANDER Z. MILLER, FIRST PLACE WINNER
BOY SCOUT TROOP 39, CUMMING, GA

Service to my remarkable country means that each and every one of us fulfills our solemn duties as citizens of the United States. There are many ways in which we can demonstrate service to our country, including assisting in community beatification and environmental projects or recycling on a regular basis. However, I personally will highlight three additional areas; voting; serving on a jury, and serving in the military all are major parts of creating a better tomorrow for our country.

One crucial responsibility of a citizen is to vote. This is not usually thought of as a "service", but it is a way in which every citizen can express his or her opinion about the future direction our country on a wide variety of topics. Elections are what make the leaders of tomorrow and we have the opportunity to exercise that freedom by casting a vote. The privilege to vote has shaped our nations history; from Lincoln to Kennedy to George W Bush. Americans have chosen their path into the future and must never cease to do so.

Another critical element of being a citizen is if selected, to serve on a jury. By serving in jury you may make a major decision about a fellow citizen's fate. One of the hallmarks of democracy is upholding the laws of the land. By serving on a jury we demonstrate our freedom. No dictator decides guilt, the accused receive a chance to present their case, and a respectful jury makes the important decision based on facts and evidence.

Finally, a responsibility citizens must rightfully uphold is going to battle to fight for the freedom that we all enjoy. Currently, we have an all volunteer military. That is ideal since it is a clear way in which one can "volunteer' to serve the country. However, when war occurs there may be a draft of the citizens and, as a citizen, you must comply with request of the government. This is also a clear way to show your solidarity with the fundamental principles of our country - whether or not you agree with that particular war or conflict.

What does service to our country mean to me? It can be completed in many ways, but it's essence is to be an active participant in fulfilling our duties as citizens of the United States.