Brynna Corley, a Highland Hills Middle School student, placed third in the national essay contest of the Elks Club Americanism Essay Contest! This is Brynna with Mr. Scott, Exalted Ruler of the New Albany Elks Club. Brynna won a Savings Bond and was honored at a banquet at the New Albany Elks Club on July 18.

This is her essay:
      I am proud to say that I enjoy the privilege of saying the Pledge of Allegiance.  I get to stand up, put my hand over my heart, and show my loyalty to America.  The Pledge of Allegiance allows me to voice my beliefs and that of my country.  I am very proud to say I get to do these things every day.
       The words in the Pledge of Allegiance tell what this country is all about.  It helps explain the pride the men and women who built this country must have felt.  By pledging loyalty to the stars and stripes and the country it symbolizes, we are telling everyone that we as citizens of the United States agree to stand together and fight for our freedom if needed, and to make sure everyone is treated fairly.
        Even though I cannot fight for our freedom like a soldier does, I am proud to try to do as much as I can for my country, whether it’s donating to a food drive, volunteering my time to help others, or simply saying the Pledge.  The pride I feel when I say the Pledge is amazing.  It is something I am not forced to do so, but that I choose to do.  It shows that I care about something that is important.  That is why I am proud to say the Pledge of Allegiance.