I have watched over the years as it seems the American flag and "The Star-Spangled Banner," our national anthem, have been less and less honored as symbols of our democracy. I would like to see more American flags flying in support of our president-elect and a peaceful transition and hope for our country as it tries to recover from the  Jan. 6 events in Washington, D.C.

More and more as I attend school events, parades and even sporting events, I see the crowd not saluting our flag and not singing our anthem. I fear that not all the younger generations even know the words to the anthem or how to respect our flag.

Are we, the so-called Silent Generation, the last who honor and respect these traditions? I am not ashamed to say that I was brought to tears watching the Capitol Building and the chambers of government being assaulted. It is time to speak up to protect our democracy before it is too late.

Dee Ryans

Mystic