My husband took me to the Eagles game last night in Philadelphia.
Despite the unusual amount of penalties and the frustrating loss, there were some fun points to the game.
Like this: 
More than 100 servicemen and women from all branches of the military held this football-field-sized flag during the national anthem.
I've never really gotten teary-eyed during "The Star Spangled Banner" (well, maybe after 9/11 when anything having to do with patriotism and bringing our country together got me chocked up). But for whatever reason, seeing all those men and women in uniform holding the flag put a knot in my throat.
I got an even bigger knot when the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon took the field.
You've probably seen this commercial:
I know Steve is not in the Silent Drill Platoon. I have no idea what his skills are with a rifle. He could be a total klutz when it comes to flipping them in the air and keeping rhythm.
I've also never seen Steve in his dress blues (on a potentially inappropriate side note he told me that among the corps, dress blues are known as "panty droppers." No, I did not need to hear that from my little brother. And, yes, I did throw up in my mouth a little bit when he told me that).
But still, when they're all in a row like that, with their matching haircuts and matching uniforms, they all kind of look like my brother. And that gets me thinking about him and how proud I am of him for his service.
And who wouldn't get a little misty eyed under the circumstances?
I'm with you on the tears. When I see the veterans marching in the parade, I get all choked up. Whenever the National Anthem plays, same thing. I'm just so proud to be an American. Proud to be a part of a country that is so awesome. And proud of the men and women who fight every day so it can stay that way. May God bless each of them today and always.