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California State Winner

Alexander Mui
Antioch, CA
Army and Navy Academy
Private (Non-Religious)
10th Grade

Freedom isn't free. We as Americans hear the phrase 'America, the land of the free', but do we ever stop and think about the meaning of freedom. The people of my generation seem to forget that freedom has a price. Freedom is a rare quality few countries other then America would die for. We live life as we see fit. Freedom gives you the opportunity to say what you believe, to do what you want, the power to learn, study, work, and believe in the manner of your choosing. The most important thing about freedom is opportunity. The freedom of opportunity gives you the chance to start out equally with everyone regardless of social status. Our forefathers knew the importance of freedom. Generations of men before us died for the honor of preserving America's freedom. They knew defending our freedom would give future generations the luxury of living in a nation of liberty.

As much pride as I have for America, it seems the people of my generation don't understand what it means to be an American. They take freedom for granted and think it's handed to them on a silver platter. They forget there are citizens like you and me dying to preserve our precious gift. Someone who is truly American should understand that freedom has a price and should show pride and respect for those who defend it. I respect my father, who was in the Marine Corps, as well as all our service people because they understand the value of freedom.

As a jarhead who attends the Army & Navy Academy, I understand the meaning of being truly an American. While my bloodline may be 100% Chinese, I have no pride in modern China. I honor my heritage from the old Chinese kingdoms, but I will not show loyalty to the new communist China. When someone asks for my race, I reply with pride, 'I'm American'. The Asians at my school feel offended by my patriotism toward America while others think I should not call myself American because I am Chinese. America to me is my motherland, my home. As her citizen I express my pride to the fullest. I was born in America and have never stepped foot out of this great land. I have never been to China so I have in no knowledge of their freedoms, if any. Immigrants come to America to experience freedoms never felt before; the reason my ancestors came to America. America is the only land for me.

Americans can't be expressed as one race, creed, or status, but as a group of different ethnic backgrounds who know the meaning and importance of freedom. The definition of an American is one, no matter their background, who strongly believes that the freedom here in America is something worth defending, protecting, and preserving. A true American shows loyalty, respect, and pride whenever he sees Old Glory waving in the wind. Our pride for America is what makes us proud Americans. Whenever I see a flag hanging in a driveway, yellow ribbon on a car, hear the national anthem or see those Marines raising the symbol of freedom over the rubble of Iwo Jima my heart fills with pride. As an American, I am proud and loyal to my homeland.

GOD BLESS AMERICA! Oohrah!!!