BY REBECCA RICHARDS
-KARNAC

I realize before a big race that there are many things on a driver's mind, yet I can't believe that any driver could forget when the National Anthem is played that they could possibly forget to remove their hat. Especially when they are in Texas, and the F18's are flying overhead.

I guess I am dismayed by Jeff Gordon's apparent "forgetfulness" yesterday.
I find it hard to believe when our military men and women are stationed in hostile regions, getting some comfort from a sport they love, that one of the most famous racers was caught on live television wearing his hat during our country's National Anthem.

What was he thinking? Maybe he wasn't...Yet I noticed that Jamie McMurray's little girl was holding her hand over her heart. Dale Earnhardt Jr. had his hat off, head bowed and the most serious look on his face I have ever seen him show.

Hopefully someone near Jeff Gordon will point out his faux pas, hopefully he will remember to remove his hat the next time he hears the National Anthem played.

When I think of the sacrifices made by members of the military past and present, I am humbled, and grateful. When I think of my own family members and friends who have served our country, I am proud, yet sad.

When my ancestors fled to America with hopes of better lives, they struggled in the beginning. They made it through the revolution and the Civil War, and to this day, I can't think of anyone in my acquaintance who would be disrespectful and fail to remove their hat or place a hand over their heart.

If NASCAR NEXTEL Racing is to be recognized as the "All American" sport, maybe someone needs to remind the drivers who are looked up to by todays' youth, that they are setting an example. Maybe the drivers will choose to make themselves a good "patriotic" and respectful example.

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