Hi James,

This is a wonderful essay. The title is enigmatic and attention grabbing. It tells the reader very little about what the essay is actually about. They are intrigued and will begin to read to find out more. You launch into the essay without introduction or preamble. This takes all the reader's attention and focuses it completely on the topic and the essay. They will read to the last word. You have written about a flag retirement ceremony you and your son attended while he was at Boy Scout Camp. The reader is delighted with the look they get at you as a person as well as a writer. The length is perfect. You completely develop your topic without belaboring the issue and making the essay tedious. You use an emotional style that is very appealing to the reader. Great job.