Call to greatness spurred on by a teacher

[pineda]

great story in Houston Chronicle today about patriotism

After working on the flag for 12 1/2 hours, Heft said he expected his grade to match his effort, but his teacher gave him a B-minus. Normally a quiet student, Heft said he had to confront the teacher.

"I approached him (thinking), 'Are you kidding me?' " Heft said.

After the discussion, the teacher told Heft that if he got the flag accepted nationally, he would give him an A.

Heft then sent the flag to a state representative and in 1960, his design became the country's official symbol. His teacher promptly bumped up his grade.

Heft's prestigious status has resulted in 14 trips to the White House. He's met every commander-in-chief since Dwight Eisenhower.

These days, he remains active on the speaking circuit, saying he usually addresses around 225 audiences a year.

"As long as I'm able to promote patriotism, that's what I'll do," he said.

[Houston1stWordOnTheMoon]

Very nice story, i learned something today