On Tuesday, May 7 I had the pleasure of attending the Hicksville Middle School's seventh-grade concert. The band, orchestra and chorus gave an outstanding performance. Only one thing was lacking - The Pledge of Allegiance.

In the aftermath of September 11, there has been a resurgence of patriotism in our country. As time progresses, our memory of the day becomes dimmer. We are sometimes criticized as a nation of flag-wavers. Well, we should be. We should be proud of our country and what it stands for. This attitude should be started in the home and reinforced in our schools. It should be standard procedure for public schools to recite the Pledge at every public gathering. It takes only 13 seconds to say.

I look forward to vocally expressing my patriotism at the next school function and when those talented musicians are present, the Star Spangled Banner would be a good choice.

Susan J. Strauss