Updated youth comic books instill respect for veterans and the U.S. flag 

Updated youth comic books instill respect for veterans and the U.S. flag 

The American Legion has been instilling pride and respect for the U.S. flag through its Rally Around the Flag campaign. Under this campaign was an overhaul of three popular American Legion youth comic books sold through Emblem Sales – “I Pledge Allegiance,” “Our Country’s Veterans” and “Our Country’s Flag.” 

I Pledge Allegiance” is a fun, interactive activity book for elementary students that educates on why we recite the Pledge of Allegiance, what each word means and why our flag is important. A group of classmates follow a bald eagle named Abe as he shares these answers, and explains much more such as why we have 50 stars and 13 stripes and how to recite the Pledge properly (hand over heart, etc.). For activities, the comic book features an American flag for kids to color, a set of pictures that asks students to put an X where people are showing allegiance to the flag, a blank box to draw what freedom means, space to write in our freedoms, a connect the dots and a matching game.

Our Country’s Veterans” comic book educates youth about what a veteran is, the variety of roles they can do in the armed forces, their service and sacrifice, how to thank a veteran and how to be a good citizen. The story is about four youth who help with the dedication of a new veterans memorial, hear the stories and contributions of people they know who have served in military, and share in the importance of thanking America’s veterans. It’s a great educational tool for Legion Family members to give to elementary students to help them understand the military service of our men and women. 

Our Country’s Flag” is a story about how the U.S. flag inspired four friends who grew up to lead different lives – a teacher, congresswoman, police officer and Army nurse. The comic book also walks youth in ways they can show what freedom means to them such as paying respect to the flag by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, respecting and obeying the law and volunteering for public service. And it gives examples of how to treat the flag with respect, including to bring an unserviceable flag to a local American Legion post for proper disposal. This comic book is an educational tool Legion Family members can give to elementary students to help them understand the importance of our flag, how to show respect for the flag, and how to protect our country’s freedom.