We are Americans

When I transferred to State my sophomore year, I was excited to embrace the customs and traditions of my new University. As I prepare for graduation, I have no doubt I will forever be a faithful member of Wolfpack Nation. However, I wish to go on-record in disagreement with a certain tradition.

That tradition is the act of shouting “RED” and “WOLFPACK” during the playing of the National Anthem.  While the Star Spangled Banner is played, we do not stand as Wolfpack, Tarheels or Blue Devils. We stand as Americans, united in honor, respect and remembrance of those who have fought and are fighting for our freedom. We stand to defend the honor of the country we call home, not to exalt the comparatively trivial accomplishments of our respective teams.

I think 60 seconds of reverent reflection is a great prelude to three hours of sportsman-like division.  Even if our team has a losing season, we bring honor upon ourselves by exhibiting good sportsmanship, and I hope that our students would lead the way to doing so.

Luke Augspurger

senior, mechanical engineering