Jackson Free Press

Whether your answer to this question is yes, no or not sure, you may want to check out the Patriotism Experience exhibit now open at the Mississippi War Memorial Building on 120 South State St. to help rekindle that American spirit. Originally intended for a young audience, the Patriotism Experience allows citizens of all ages to take a walk through our country's history and learn of the symbols, wars, and leaders that have helped shape the United States of America.

Before entering the main exhibit, visitors see the "Power of One," a historical timeline of voting in America. On the opposite wall, an elaborate model of "Lady Liberty" stands beside a text description of the American duty. The main gallery offers colorful murals, images, statues and facts about U.S. history that you may have missed back in grammar school. Patriotism Experience explores deeply the impact of war on our country. Whether the "Shot Heard Around the World" in 1775 or the military response to the attacks of Sept. 11, the exhibit gives detailed facts about those wars.

Another feature of the exhibit is the "Hall of Flags," where each flag this country has flown hangs overhead. A brief history of each is provided. Did you know that 15-year-old Robert Heft created the current U.S. flag? He even got a B on the assignment, but his teacher told him he could get an A if Congress adopted it! You will learn that Baptist minister (and socialist) Francis Bellamy wrote the Pledge of Allegiance in 1892 because he believed in the middle class ("under God" wasn't added until 1954).

Before you leave, take the touch screen "Citizen Exam" to test your knowledge on America. Just answer 12 questions to see if your patriotic heart matches your patriotic knowledge. I took it. Scored a 9. Not the best, but there's always room for improvement.

There is an old saying, "You learn something new every day." Patriotism Experience may well teach you something you didn't know. Better yet, it is a reminder not to make the same mistakes that we did in the past.