OPINION

On Being an American

by Mario Delgado

Being an American is not a condition of an individual's place of birth or origin or even of a point in time. To be an American is a product of the structure and destination of our ideals, goals and daily conduct. Being an American is above all constantly striving to live a life of high moral values and just conduct, of cherishing and defending liberty for all. It is a state of heart and mind that embraces and unites and not one that rejects and discriminates.

You can be born in the United States and be as un-American as our worst enemy, and be born in Timbuktu and be as American as the best and most patriotic among us. We are a nation of principles, much more so than geography; the latter comes a dime a dozen.

Therefore, let's not disenfranchise anyone over reasons of national roots, education, looks or generation of arrival, as these are not part of the fundamental pillars of our culture. Let's not allow our individual shortcomings and shortsighted views and reflexes to blind our judgment and promote splits within our ranks. Those are the kind of splits that only our real enemies not only would be proud of, but also will profit from.


Mario E. Delgado
Div. LRP Co. /Vietnam
101st. Airborne Division