As an Iranian immigrant and veteran, l've dedicated my life to this country

At the gym today, I had one of those moments that reminds you why standing your ground matters. As an Iranian immigrant and veteran, l've dedicated my life to this country— yet some still question my loyalty because of where I was born.
When someone made a comment implying | couldn't truly be patriotic, I didn't stay silent. I told him that love for a nation isn't defined by implying I couldn't truly be patriotic, I didn't stay silent. I told him that love for a nation isn't defined by birthplace, but by service, sacrifice, and commitment to its ideals. I fought for the freedoms that let him speak his mind, even when his words cut deep.
Being an immigrant doesn't make you less American—it often means you chose this country deliberately, with conviction. The flag belongs to all who honor it.
#Patriotism #ImmigrantPride
#VeteranVoices #Freedom #Unity