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Leah Slossburg
Harkins
American History Hon. (7)
27 March 2015
Band Of Brothers Response
America is a huge country, home to millions of people. It is powerful and famous
with an intense history. However, the question about this country remains, what does it
mean to be an American? Does it mean red white and blue clothing and aggressive
citizens passionate about their country and freedom? In my opinion, being an American
means being open minded, optimistic, supporting the underdog, and using freedom and
power to benefit others. A solider in the Band of Brothers series that shows the
characteristics of being an American is Major Richard Winters. He takes other men and
the war very seriously, responding with guidance and supporting the other men as best as
he can, because of this Winters represents American ideals.
Through his determination and leadership, Winters is one of the soldiers that
represents what it means to be an American. He was born in Texas, moving to Ephrata
and then Lancaster. He joined the army by volunteering, an attempt to not be drafted.
However, with the abrupt bombing of Pearl Harbor, he was forced to join the army. Later
as he was serving, he realized his platoon leader did not know how to do his job. Winters
then chose to attendOfficers Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia, to learn more
and become a leader. Although he did not directly choose to be part of the war, he put all
of his effort into it and made the best from the change in his life. He could have said
nothing and continued with his duties, however he chose to make a change and learn.
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This shows the American spirit: he took a situation that may not have been ideal, and
made it the best for him, knowing that as a lieutenant he would be a leader, helping other
people.
Winters shows this American spirit through many actions that would still be
valued today. For example, he is kind to another soldier, Blithe, who is timid and looses
his eyesight from shock. Instead of reprimanding him, or acting fed up with Blithes
distress and fear, he talks him through what is going on and offers words of
encouragement. A kind act like this, especially in the army, is valued among soldiers and
the kindness and strong leadership Winters shows is still important today. In another
event, a battle where the commanding officer froze up due to his lack of knowledge,
experience, and commitment; Winters took charge saving many lives. Although he
himself was prevented from going into battle, he sent 1st Lieutenant Speirs to assist in the
battle. The type of support and management Winters offers his soldiers is what it means
to be an American, helping and supporting others. Winters received many awards,
including the Combat Infantryman Badge, Purple Heart, and Medal of the City of
Eindhoven.
Through his positive influence, kindness, determination, and support, Winters
embodies what it means to be an American. For me, American essence is freedom and
leadership, and using that to help others. I believe this is what it means to be an American
because although America is not a perfect country, many people have great amounts of
freedom and opportunities. As a country, I believe this is our duty, to help others as we
can. America is growing and providing more opportunities for everyone. This is
something that should be spread around the world and the positive leadership of America
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should continue and grow. Through my belief of what it means to be an American, I came
to the conclusion that Winters represents this leader mentality though World War II and
the Band of Brothers series.
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Sources
"Band of Brothers Major Richard Winters." Wikia. N.p., n.d. Web.
