The meaning of patriotism

Rich McMahon, left, and Bill Kline show students how to properly fold a flag. Photo by Brian S. Orban

Dozens of students stood together in silence with their gaze transfixed on the small display at the front of the makeshift classroom. Their right hands placed over their hearts, a few of the youngsters shifted in their feet -- just a little -- hoping to get a better look at the American flag that the two uniformed men were saluting.

In one corner of the room, a lone bugler played Taps with the final notes echoing the ceremony's somber but dignified mood.

For many of the fifth graders at Hacker Middle School, it was an up-close look at what it means to be an American.

For the full story, pick up a copy of the Mountain Home News or click on this link to subscribe to the newspaper's online edition.