It has been 14 years. My family arrived in the United States from Cebu, Philippines in 2002. I was four years old when I came to this country. I don't remember much, but I do know this...

I miss the Philippines dearly, but there is no other place I would call home than the U.S.A.

I am proud to watch the American flag wave in the sky. I am proud to place my hand on my heart for the national anthem. And I am proud to say, for almost three years now, that I am an American citizen.

I am proud to represent the color red, the symbol of hardiness and valour. The red that resembles the blood our brave men and women have sacrificed for our country. I am eternally grateful for their dedication to serve, their courage to defend our rights, and their willingness to risk their lives in order to save ours. No other color best represents the passion and love these people have. Thank you for letting me represent red.

I am proud to represent the color white, the symbol of purity and innocence. The white that resembles the light from the darkness we've overcome. When times get tough, the American people get to work to get things done. Thank you to our troops for being the epitome of what it takes to be an American. You bring hope for us when everything seems gray. And thank you to the citizens that give a helping hand to their neighbor in need. Thank you for making me proud to represent white.

Lastly, I am proud to represent the color blue, the symbol of vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The blue that resembles freedom and liberty. Thank you to our troops for protecting my freedom to believe in God. Thank you for protecting my freedom to get an education, to express my beliefs, and to go to bed at night knowing everything will be okay. Thank you for letting me represent blue.

America may be going through a rough time right now. It is not perfect, and there are a lot of problems that need to be fixed. But I still believe it is the land of opportunity. Why else would my family have come here? I salute the men and women who have fought, are fighting, and will fight for this country. Let us not forget Memorial Day as the day to honor those who have put our lives before theirs. You are the reason I am proud to be an American. I hope you all had a blessed Memorial Day weekend, and thank you again for the red, white, and blue. God bless America.

This photo was taken during a service trip at Stand Down KC. Every year, volunteers come from all over to distribute clothes, toiletries, and other necessities for homeless veterans in the surrounding Kansas City area.