During the Super Bowl, there was a Coke Comercial where America the Beautiful was sung in different Languages. What did you think of this?

CMDCM Gene Treants — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 21:07:05 -0500

<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 17 [login to see] 57617px;">Sorry, Coke if you don't sing America the beautiful in English, you lose.  I sing "O Tannebaum" in German as well as Silega Nacht."  "America the Beautiful" and The National Anthem should be in English. </span><div><font color="#333333" face="lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 17 [login to see] 57617px;"><br></span></font><div><font color="#333333" face="lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 17 [login to see] 57617px;">I was born in Germany and am 1/2 German & Greek.  I speek German, Italian, and English and Amerixa is my Home Country.  As all of my fellow Vets, Retired, and Active Service Members I have earned the right to my opinion.  English is the language that UNITES us as it did our parents and grandparents, it has not like some languages divided us.  </span></font></div></div>

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Feb 2 at 2014 9:10 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 21:10:35 -0500

I seriously don't care until only speaking English means you don't get hired for a job in American.

Response by SSG Laureano Pabon made Feb 2 at 2014 9:12 PM

SSG Laureano Pabon — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 21:12:19 -0500

What language was it Master Chief?

Response by SSG Oliver Mathews made Feb 2 at 2014 9:16 PM

SSG Oliver Mathews — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 21:16:08 -0500

I have to disagree with you based solely off the fact that the United States as a whole does not have an Official Language. some states i believe do have official languages. But as whole. The Country does not.<br><br>So saying that everything SHOULD be in english is taking away a persons ability to love their heritage and this country at the same time, which pretty much going against the founding beliefs that this great country was based on. <br>A person can love this country even if their Primary language is French, German, German, Swahili, or any other language. <br><br><br><br>

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 9:23 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 21:23:22 -0500

My comments to Coke: What does the song America the Beautiful have to do with visual scenes from all over the world? Yes, America is a Melting Pot, nobody is denying that. But the song you chose says "From Sea to Shining Sea." That means East Coast to West Coast USA. If you wanted to point out that Coke is worldwide, you should have chosen a different song. OR, choose visual locations WITHIN the "Sea to Shining Sea" that represent those melting pot cultures.

Big Fail, Coke. Good concept. Poorly executed.

**P.S. If the locations are actually within the U.S. then I apologize for my comments, however, I didn't get that impression. I wish that they would have showed visual representation proving that it was highlighting a culture within the states in a location that is OBVIOUSLY American (ie, Times Square, Golden Gate Bridge, etc).

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 9:34 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 21:34:07 -0500

I think it is awesome that "America the Beautiful" has been translated into so many languages. I found the commercial to be patriotic, thought-provoking and beautiful. I am apparently one of very few in the military community who feels this way, however. I deactivated my Facebook tonight after a barrage of comments and texts reminded me of how greatly my worldview differs from my family and peers.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Feb 2 at 2014 10:00 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 22:00:38 -0500

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 10:52 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 22:52:00 -0500

Wow, so how do we report pansy @$$ captains who like to come in a vote down all the responses that were not "Oh Coke, I love you!" Dude even voted down master chief's response telling me thanks for posting the link. <div><br></div><div>Captain Michael S (whatever the hell your last name is) Do you feel better now, hiding behind your keyboard?</div><div><br></div><div>***I really think that the previous suggestion (on another thread a while back) that down votes should be accompanied by a response should be required. </div>

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 11:06 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 23:06:58 -0500

a common joke around the world <div><br></div><div>what do you call someone who speaks 3 languages</div><div>   -trilingual</div><div>what do you call someone who speaks 2 languages</div><div>   -bilingual</div><div>what do you call someone who speaks 1 language</div><div>   -American</div><div><br></div><div>with our increasingly lower competitiveness in science and math as well; how does an attitude against multi-culturalism and education benefit the country we all swore to protect?  </div><div><br></div><div>Maybe you don't agree with the ad, but being so blatantly against an idea showing the many faces of the US in the languages spoken here will send a poor message to children.</div>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 12:12 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 00:12:59 -0500

So basically what I'm understanding from many of these comments is that regardless if you're American or not, if you sing "America the Beautiful" it MUST be in English? I'm confused because I always thought the "land of the free" allowed people to practice their own religions, speak their own language and act out their own culture. Shame on those non-English speaking people for showing pride in America and joining in on the song in their native language. I mean because being an American, English is the only language you can speak! I'm literally shaking my head at the thinking of some of the posters of this thread (as well as the many Americans who complained about the video). No one knows where these people were nor does the commercial allude that it was shot internationally. I'm willing to bet that everything was shot right here on U.S. soil which makes sense why they would be singing "America the Beautiful" considering all of those languages can be found right here, IN AMERICA! God!

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 3 at 2014 10:17 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 10:17:22 -0500

I think there is something more to be said about the fact that some people that bashed the commercial don't even know what the National Anthem is.  To them I say learn your facts about this country first before spreading your narrow-point-of-view as fact.  <div><br></div><div>As far as the actual commercial I think was Coke was trying to say was we as a country aren't made of just one language and while I stand firm on saying that if you come here to this country to live, you need to learn English, you also have to give them time to learn the language and if they get here and can only say the words to "America the Beautiful" in their native tongue at first then let them sing it.   </div><div><br></div><div>The other commercial that I'm surprised isn't catching some heat is what I consider the politically motivated and anti-war commercial aired by Axe Body Spray.  While I think war is never the first answer, it is in some cases necessary and for a company to air a commercial like that during the game in a country that has been at work for 10+ years felt like a shot in the face; at least to me.</div>

Response by SPC James Dillworth made Feb 3 at 2014 10:22 AM

SPC James Dillworth — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 10:22:30 -0500

I missed the commercial, but would not have approved of it, had I heard it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 11:57 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 11:57:57 -0500

I personally did not see why it was such a big issue.  Being an American does not preclude those who speak other languages.  The United States is a melting pot of people, cultures, and languages, I wouldnt want it any other way.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 12:46 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 12:46:54 -0500

<p>MCPO Treants,</p><p> </p><p>What is wrong with celebrating the diversity of this country?  </p><p> </p><p>I can sing "O Tannebaum" or "Oh Christmas Tree" in both German and English.  "Stille Nacht" or "Silent Night" as well.  </p><p>The diversity and freedom in this country is what makes it great.  </p><p>I can appreciate your opinion and I respect it, I just don't see why people are so upset.  Everything that I have read, in the media and here, does not relate to something substantial that should force "America the Beautiful" to be sung in English.</p><p>Personally it is a beautiful song for a beautiful nation and I can appreciate the beauty in the many translations that were shared last night.</p><p>I believe that people forget that they have the freedom not to listen to something that they don't like.</p>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 1:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 13:30:06 -0500

America was not settled by Americans, it was settled by immigrants that spoke many different languages. The whole essence of America is the congregation of people from different countries living in harmony.
However if we want to be technical the song should be sung in the tongue of the Native Americans from whom this country was taken.

Response by SSG Luis Ortiz Rodriguez made Feb 3 at 2014 2:25 PM

SSG Luis Ortiz Rodriguez — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 14:25:58 -0500

I did like the commercial, I saw it as product. Not sure what is all the fuss about different languages, we are constantly singing songs translate from other languages.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 3:28 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 15:28:44 -0500

I personally hated it, although we are now a big ol' melting pot our language is English. I also do not like the Spanish version of the National Anthem, and have offically become a Pepsi drinker, or maybe SodaStream. Those Isreali's make a fine commerical and in English no less.

Response by SFC Jason Porter made Feb 3 at 2014 3:38 PM

SFC Jason Porter — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 15:38:27 -0500

I think what people are mad at is that people do migrate to this country and do not learn the language, do not care about what America is about. They come and live here illegally and suck dry resources. And the political wing of this country wants to throw amnesty at them to make them citizens. All this for a political gain. I am for diversity that is what America is made from. So when they hear a American Patriotic song sung in different languages it is a slap in the face in alot of Americans. We as ex or current service members work with all kinds of different languages, religions in the military so we are used to it. You have to think small town America does not. With that said I really do not care what lang was used, What I care about is do the words have meaning to the migrated people who want to live here. Abide by our laws, they want to know who the founding fathers where, just plain American history thats all. "STAY ALERT STAY ALIVE"

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 4:22 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 16:22:19 -0500

Marketing Genius!! I never remember a coke commercial after the game, because I haven't drank soda in 7-8 years so it is of no interest to me. Now look at all the free publicity they are getting. Genius pure Genius!

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Feb 3 at 2014 7:32 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 19:32:36 -0500

I think this commercial has tapped into the whole "Assimilation vs. Accommodation" argument. As an immigrant myself, I believe that what I bring to this country is special and should be shared with everyone else as something unique and special. BUT I also understand that for me to really take advantage of the opportunities that this country has to offer, I have to assimilate as well. I would never expect people in the country to accommodate me, when I am coming HERE to live. Yes we are nation of immigrants and each of add something special. But IMHO, what makes America strong is that we add our piece to the puzzle, but accept the whole thing as ours.

Response by SSG Robert Spear made Feb 3 at 2014 9:40 PM

SSG Robert Spear — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 21:40:21 -0500

How many of my brothers and sisters in arms have served with someone who
learned English as a second language? And you knew that you could trust
that Marine, Soldier, Sailor or Airman with your life in a bad situation? This is
exactly why I have absolutely no issues with hearing the National Anthem
sung in a different language. This country has been defended by
immigrants for as long as we have existed. If you have an issue with it,
it's your problem, not theirs.

Response by Maj Walter Kilar made Feb 3 at 2014 10:56 PM

Maj Walter Kilar — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 22:56:33 -0500

I personally did not like hearing "America the Beautiful" being sung in other languages, but I was not offended by it. Perhaps if the commercial spot were purchased by a conglomerate of international advertisement executives that pooled their resources to honor America with a heartfelt rendition of the song in their native tongues, I would have enjoyed it. Instead, I was suspicious of Coke's motives for having the song done in other languages. It just did not feel earnest. It sure as heck did not make me want to run to the store and buy some Coca Cola. It did not make me think of my relatives that came to America from Poland and Germany 100 years ago, and it did not give me false hope that other countries picture America as it is portrayed in the song.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 11:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 23:23:17 -0500

I personally do not think it was a good decision. It seems our country spends a lot of time catering to other nations. In doing this we have forgot that our ancestors have fought and died so their children's children can have something of their own, America. I know some may say times have changed and that's old fashion, but if we keep catering to other nations how much of our country, that we all here fight for, will be left for our children. The pledge of allegiance is no longer required before the start of school. Piece by piece we will undo our own traditions to avoid offending another nations or religions. So some songs and some traditions should go unaltered forever, even in something as small as a commercial. For you "Nay Sayers" I also believe we have fought for freedom and that freedom includes speech so everyone is entitled to their own opinion of everything.

Response by CWO3 Brent Kern made Feb 4 at 2014 12:21 AM

CWO3 Brent Kern — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 00:21:52 -0500

Tech question; why is my post all jumbled like that? Please guide an old man to assist in cleaning that thing up.

Thanks

Response by CWO3 Brent Kern made Feb 4 at 2014 12:24 AM

CWO3 Brent Kern — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 00:24:14 -0500

OK, so the Coke
commercial, specifically the one in which America the Beautiful was sung in
multiple languages. I have a very
open
mind; I embrace all cultures and religions with no judgment. But this
commercial just really jumped deep into my veins. I have been told that
I suffer from Narrow Mindedness but I disagree, what I am guilty of, it
is NATIONALISM; HUGE DIFFERENCE. Here is a thought from my little narrow mind,
maybe if there were more people that embraced the contents of the Pledge of Allegiance
we could start to close some of these gaps in the nation…”I pledge allegiance
to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it
stands, “One Nation” under God, Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all…. In my opinion, we
will never be a truly united nation until we adopt one official
language and people drop the prefix from the American…not
German-American, African-American,
Spanish-American…you get it; just “American”.
Well that is it, your thoughts.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 6:36 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 06:36:18 -0500

America was named  after a 15th century Spanish explorer and merchant named Amerigo . It was settled by immigrants from all over the world speaking many different languages. The commercial was a terrific tribute to the multitude of different cultures that are here in America. 

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 6:48 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 06:48:01 -0500

It doesn't bother me *at all*. It showcases the diversity that is our strength. You know why we're better than the fundamentalist Muslim countries and always will be? We don't treat our women like property. Everyone has a chance to contribute what they bring to the table, and that is what makes our country great.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 6:59 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 06:59:31 -0500

It shouldn't bother you. EVERYONE that lives on this land is descendent from an immigrant. EVERYONE!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 7:50 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 07:50:22 -0500

Just a little quote from a wise man, “We have room for but one language in this country, and that is the English language, for we intend to see that the crucible turns our people out as Americans, of American nationality, and not as dwellers in a polyglot boarding house.”

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 8:00 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 08:00:20 -0500

I'm not bothered by it in the least, I thought they hit the nail on the head.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 8:07 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 08:07:07 -0500

I thought they nailed it as we're a Nation built on immigrants and different cultures.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 8:46 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 08:46:08 -0500

Ok, i am an immigrant and i have not had soda in 10years and i did not see the commercial because AFN does not show commercials but whether it was for financial gain or not it was a great idea. My kids may not speak my native tongue when they grow up but they are not going to be less American because of where their parents were born or what they speak.

Response by SGT R J Imhoff made Feb 4 at 2014 9:08 AM

SGT R J Imhoff — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 09:08:05 -0500

Hated it.. I would of had no problem with it ending with "The World is thankful for America and Its Brave Fighting Soldiers that provided their Freedom."

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Feb 4 at 2014 9:50 AM

SFC Gary Fox — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 09:50:03 -0500

I didn't watch the Super Bowl and therefor did not see the Coke commercial. I have read most of the comments here. There were a few people who have stated English was not the official language of this country. I looked up the process to become a naturalized citizen of our country and found that an immigrant taking the citizen test does take an English test and the civics test they take is also in English. These tests are in our immigration laws. Therefor it would seem that since an immigrant applying for citizenship must take an English test and a civics test in English that English is the official language of the United States.

I could care less Coke did this commercial. We have hundreds of thousands of immigrants from around the world who do not speak English and perhaps Coke did this commercial to reach out to them and show them how America is beautiful in 60 seconds using their languages.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 9:51 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 09:51:20 -0500

The National Anthem would be the only song I "MIGHT" take issue with being sung in another language. Why not share our music with the rest of the world. It's a song about the beauty of America.

Response by SFC Cornelius Walsh made Feb 4 at 2014 10:06 AM

SFC Cornelius Walsh — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 10:06:56 -0500

I was really confused by the outcry. When we live in a society where bias and hate are so prevalent, I thought it was refreshing to see American's of varied languages and races singing a song that praises the beauty of our shared Country. I'm always happy to see American's taking pride in the country that I love so much - I think people need to focus on what all those people had in common, and not what differences there were.

Response by SSG Richard McMurray made Feb 4 at 2014 10:17 AM

SSG Richard McMurray — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 10:17:40 -0500

I thought it was kind of cool. I agree that American's should learn English. I know that there are a log of people from other countries because of how beautiful America is. When I say that, I mean the freedoms that we have hear are a beauty that many other people do not have until they come here. I am fine with people coming here as long as it is done legally. I think that is why coke did the various languages. The ones that really touched my heart though was when before kickoff with the live version how they did it in sign language. I have a deaf daughter so the sign language is very personal to me.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 4 at 2014 10:34 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 10:34:00 -0500

Okay so from a marketing standpoint this commercial was worth every penny Coke spent to have the ad run during the Super Bowl. Have you seen the numbers of searches, trending hashtags and forums covering this ONE commercial? I haven't see hard numbers but I'm sure it is up there. The commercial got people talking. It got Coke's name out ahead of Pepsi. So regardless of how you feel about the commercial, from the point of view that matters the most to Coke it did it's job.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 11:12 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 11:12:07 -0500

It's funny how a Coca-Cola commercial can be twisted into a political agenda/statement. Especially, since Coca-Cola has always promoted peace and harmony.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Feb 4 at 2014 11:39 AM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 11:39:50 -0500

I don't see why it should bother anyone. Think Ellis Island.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 11:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 11:54:19 -0500

First of all, it is just a song. There are far more important things in this country to be worried about than this. Second, this country was built on an idea of freedom by immigrants from all over the world that are just as american as you or I. Regardless of the language it doesn't take away from the song or what it stands for. That is like a jew saying the old testament must be read in classical hebrew or a christian saying the new testament must be read in greek. Im nlt religious but would you say that reading them in english takes away from the meaning. Proba ly should be worried about more important things like voting for congress and other elected officials to fix this nation instead of something so minor.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 6:33 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 18:33:42 -0500

Sir, I found the commercial rather refreshing. It's amazing to see how comfortable people are becoming with the diversity in our country. Even though racism still exists in parts of the US I find it fantastic that we've come so far as a country that we can air such a commercial. Sir, with all due respect, I think you are thinking of the country that once was narrow-minded and "black/white" instead of the country that is now accepting of all shades of "grey". It shouldn't matter what color, what prefix, what language... Unless you're Native American, this is as much their land as it is yours.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 6:59 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 18:59:01 -0500

We wouldn't be America if it were not for our heritage which includes immigrants. We are all descendants from one country or another because our ancestors came here looking for opportunity and planted themselves separately from dictatorship and rulership. While I understand where you are coming from, dropping all other languages and sticking to English as one universal language is an unrealistic expectation. In addition, many cultures today have English as a second language. From my understanding, Coca-Cola was symbolizing unity and harmony the world over because that is what Coca-Cola is about. Almost every country has its product so I thought it was a beautiful commercial. It represents the diversity of who we are as one race - the human race.

Response by CWO3 David Wolfe made Feb 4 at 2014 7:00 PM

CWO3 David Wolfe — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 19:00:36 -0500

From one Gunner to another.... at first it bothered me as well.... BECAUSE of the language thing.... I hate trying to talk to someone who is working in a Service oriented environment and I can't understand what they are saying.... that being said.... I looked beyond the language to the Statement (IMHO) being made that you have all these people from all these ethnicities singing (albeit in their own language) AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL!! It just reminded me that inspite of the current political debacle we have in this country...... It is still a Great place to live...... Just my opinion... hope it is of some help

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Feb 4 at 2014 7:01 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 19:01:44 -0500

"America The Beautiful" is an American anthem, not the National Anthem. We are a country of immigrants and every image in the ad is part of the American landscape, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Cedar Rapids, Montana, Arizona. The women wearing hijab in Chinatown...

It is a celebration of our diversity. Personally, I hate Coke for their economic priorities, but what they did here was an exceptional portrayal of what America is, or at least should be. Acceptance and celebration of a diversity that makes America unique. Everyone represented in this ad sees themselves as American. This ad was not about being Muslim, or Jewish or Christian or black or white or Asian or straight or gay... It was about being American and being able to say it in the language of our parents so that they can understand our pride in who we are today in a language they can understand.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 7:49 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 19:49:45 -0500

I have used this reference before - but I think it fits in this conversation:

From the movie - The American President (1995)

President Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas):

America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours. Show me that, defend that, and celebrate that in your classrooms. Then, you can stand up and sing about the "land of the free".

Fortunately, in 'free speech' you have to allow all to say their words (or you don't have 'free speech') - but it doesn't mean you have to listen to them. Walk away, turn to a different channel or station - you are 'free' to decide what you want to see and hear. It's always your decision whether or not you want to continue to read and/or listen to someone that is spouting off things you don't like, appreciate or believe in.

Even though we might not like what is being said or being broadcast on some media - we cannot censor it or we become the very thing that we have fought World Wars over.

I did not defend this country for over 32 years for it to slide into some facist or nazi type existence. Our country is and always will be the greatest land of immigrants - no one on this continent actually came from here. Throughout this continent's history people have came here from almost everywhere else. Yes, it is nice to have one 'official' language but, we need to embrace all of the different cultures that have come here to call America their 'home'. We are 'lucky' that most people in the world know english - that says alot in itself. But for us to demand it out of everyone living here that is a citizen of our great country - that goes against the true meaning of freedom and free speech. I hope our new generations will learn from history and also actually read the constitution and it's amendements so that they will not doom us to keep repeating history.

Our country is more then just a bunch of words in a 'pledge' - our nation should be the embodiment of the constitution and it's amendments. Plus, hopefully an enlightened outlook of the world in general.

Sorry for the soap box talk - just my thoughts.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 9:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 21:56:25 -0500

I approve. I love it when we always love to embrace the land of the free. Free religion.... Unless your not Christian, free speech.... Unless your not speaking English. Etc etc.

Response by SFC Edwin Mujica made Feb 5 at 2014 1:34 AM

SFC Edwin Mujica — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 01:34:32 -0500

I hardly ever read or reply to postings like this, but after reading some of your opinions, people get a life. It was a commercial. Be offended because a big corporation exploited America the Beautifull just to sell more cokes, but to be offended because it was sung in different languages is outrageous.

Response by SSG Daniel Deiler made Feb 5 at 2014 4:44 AM

SSG Daniel Deiler — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 04:44:21 -0500

I bet everyone would be appalled and up in arms if during the medal ceremonies at the Olympics here in the next few days another countries national anthem was sung in English. The road goes both ways.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 4:52 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 04:52:01 -0500

<p>MCPO Treants,</p><p>I think the song being sung in different languages just showed that America has many languages in it. Although english is our "native" language I believe it was just trying to show how we are a melting pot. English is the language everyone should speak because it unites us in my opinion.</p>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 9:09 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 09:09:44 -0500

I dont see a issues with it. Our country is made up of so many different Nationalities and cultures. We should embrace the differences in each of us and celebrate them and I believe this commercial does that

Response by SPC Noah Hughes made Feb 5 at 2014 9:38 AM

SPC Noah Hughes — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 09:38:48 -0500

This is quite the hot
topic on various platforms of social media as of late. Therefore, I shall add
my 2 cents. Coca-Cola is only interested in priming us to consume their
product, nothing more. That's how large corporations continue to make money and
dominate their respective markets. As for people who are showing their rage or
disdain for "America the Beautiful" being sang in various languages
other than English are quite interesting. It is well known in the social
sciences that cultures often attack and vilify others and their cultures which
they are not familiar with. This is all part of social engineering and is
usually subtle and not readily apparent. If an emerging immigrant culture doesn’t
assimilate into a particularly narrow view of what is American, then they are
seen as a threat. This is done to insulate the dominate culture which insures
that they stay in power. This ethnocentric view is apparent in many who are
attacking this commercial for not being in the language of the dominate
culture. This is quite narrow-minded and ignorant to say the least. Moreover,
our country was built on the foundation of immigrants. English is not our
official language nor are European-Americans the natives of North America.
These people should ask themselves "What exactly makes them so
uncomfortable about this commercial"? Are they full-blooded
Native-Americans? If not then maybe they should take a step back and reevaluate
their real feelings and motives behind said feelings.

Response by PO1 Gary Yerkes made Feb 5 at 2014 10:43 AM

PO1 Gary Yerkes — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 10:43:58 -0500

I also had issues with it. It is fine to show the different groups but they are all suppose to be Americans and here we should be speaking English as our first language. It used to be people coming here would hard to learn the language of their new country. How we are saying it is OK if you do not learn it.

Response by Capt Felix Marrero made Feb 5 at 2014 12:10 PM

Capt Felix Marrero — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 12:10:05 -0500

Why would it bother me? it has every American culture represented in the commercial and all singing how beautiful our land, nation and people are! That I'll defend, so what was depicted in the commercial would never be taken from us!

Response by Cpl Robert Espeleta made Feb 5 at 2014 3:10 PM

Cpl Robert Espeleta — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 15:10:33 -0500

I immigrated here from the Philippines when I was 10. Then enlisted in the Corps when I was18. Patriotism is not 1 language or 1race. I'm more concerned when a certain foreign language says down with America.

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Feb 5 at 2014 5:37 PM

SSG Robert Burns — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 17:37:26 -0500

News flash, the English language isn't "American" its....wait for it....English.  Meaning from England.  It's a language that was brought here, just like every other language spoken here.  That is what American is.<div>No matter what language you sing the song in, what matters is what the song means.  The language you choose doesn't change the meaning.</div><div>If someone wrote you a check for $100,000 in spanish would you not cash it?  Ok then.  (And Im sure there is some ignoramus out there that is going to say no, but you get the point)</div>

Response by SFC Daniel Alcivar made Feb 5 at 2014 5:51 PM

SFC Daniel Alcivar — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 17:51:46 -0500

So the Arab was left out so what, we have endure too much with both wars to worry about it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 7:18 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 19:18:52 -0500

I didn't hear anything in Polish lol. I thought it was a nice and represented what US is all about.

Response by SFC John Brooks made Feb 5 at 2014 7:26 PM

SFC John Brooks — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 19:26:39 -0500

When I first saw all the backlash and differing viewpoints, I had to wonder if people would be so quick to start shouting matches if Coke had chosen to have the entire anthem sung in Cherokee...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 11:43 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:43:57 -0500

Chief i understand what you are trying to say but then that would take away from the whole "American Dream" aspect. People that come to america come because they believe, as they should, that they can come and be who they are and be accepted as americans when they come in through the proper channels. I'm deployed right now and i have a Soldier thats African several hispanic and 1 thats Iraqi. We all serve the same flag and believe we are fighting for the same purpose. So why can't they sing America the beautiful in their language as long as they aren't disrespectful? It's funny to me because the only reason about 90% of us are americans is that our ancestors migrated to a place (therefore making them immigrants) that was already occupied by a nationality of people (native Americans) and took over with violence. So like most of the people in the commercial that offends so many of those out there. You became an American citizen in the same manner they did. You were born here. So who has the right to complain about anything?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2014 1:43 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 01:43:04 -0500

I liked the commercial. I believe it was designed to celebrate American diversity and sell more cokes. If anything, it got people talking, which is free product placement in itself. As for the song, I don't think there should be any issue with it being sung in different languages. The United State is a melting pot. As time goes on, various new ingredients are added and the stew itself changes. America (like Coke unfortunately) isn't using the same recipe it did 50 years ago. As the ingredients change, so does the flavor, and that's something that some people just can't seem to get used to. That's probably the nicest way I can say it.

Response by SSG Andrew Dydasco made Feb 6 at 2014 6:49 AM

SSG Andrew Dydasco — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 06:49:36 -0500

As someone who hasn't even seen the commercial, I can say with confidence that it was the best commercial during the Superbowl. Why? Because it is so controversial. I've seen so many posts on RallyPoint, FaceBook, Twitter, etc... about this ad. Every post includes the word "Coke," which is exposure double-dipping into the masses who haven't even seen the ad. The fact that we're having this discussion right now, means a win for Coke. Coke. Coca-Cola, coke coke coke coke cooooke.

Get my drift?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2014 9:59 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 09:59:18 -0500

I have an idea, since this country is called the United States of America, not United States is America, let's get rid of the word american, it applies to everyone in this continent, not just in here

Response by SGT William Brooks made Feb 6 at 2014 11:27 PM

SGT William Brooks — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 23:27:26 -0500

I feel that language is but a collection of sounds used to convey a myriad of thoughts, feelings, and ideas. These are what unite us, not words. Speaking the same language doesn't necessarily link you to another person in any meaningful way. There are other English speaking countries in the world and the language does not unite us to them. In addition, this county has been divided in the past despite our common language.

Response by Sgt Kevin Parsons made Feb 6 at 2014 11:32 PM

Sgt Kevin Parsons — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 23:32:19 -0500

I didn't have a problem with it. To be honest, it felt reminiscent of the old "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing" commercials that Coke had out many years ago.

I think this country has bigger problems to tackle than the fact that a patriotic song was sung in different languages. I think that if someone wants to migrate to the U.S., they should learn English to be functional and able to survive, just as I would have to learn other languages if I chose to move to other countries. But the fact that a song was sung in something other than English is so trivial compared to other issues.

Response by SPC Robert Patrick made Feb 7 at 2014 12:22 PM

SPC Robert Patrick — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 12:22:16 -0500

MCPO Treants,

I understand what you are saying and I can see your point of view but I think what Coca-Cola tried to do was bring the country together. I believe this rendition of America the Beautiful shows what makes America beautiful. Its the diversity of America. My family Roots being German, Irish, Scottish and Cheerokee I believe this rendidtion brought together all Americans and bringing back some of the roots of this great country we call Home.

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Feb 7 at 2014 2:33 PM

1SG Steven Stankovich — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 14:33:30 -0500

I am stationed overseas and I (1) racked out before kickoff of the Super Bowl and (2) have not watched this commercial on YouTube or any other venue.

I have learned a lot from everyone by following this thread, but I am content with not actually watching the commercial. Freedom of expression, in all forms, is a very powerful tool...

Response by SFC Dennis Yancy made Feb 7 at 2014 5:24 PM

SFC Dennis Yancy — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 17:24:38 -0500

The Declaration Of Independence was first printed in German by a publisher who serviced the German speaking community in Philadelphia. We have always been a country of many languages because our citizens come from every country on Earth. To force that out of our society would be to lose the American spirit that must be refreshed by new groups who come here for a better life.

Response by PFC Stephen Eric Serati made Feb 8 at 2014 7:06 PM

PFC Stephen Eric Serati — Sat, 08 Feb 2014 19:06:14 -0500

We are a Nation of Immigrants,and different cultures.I personally am proud of Coke for taking a risk.I thought it was done beautifully,and very respectfully.

Response by PFC Stephen Eric Serati made Feb 8 at 2014 7:25 PM

PFC Stephen Eric Serati — Sat, 08 Feb 2014 19:25:23 -0500

It's a good thing to show our Diversity to the rest of the World.To show other Nations that we are Interrelated,and that Diversity is what makes our Nation so Great.Our Military is proof of that. The Coke commercial was a good way to promote it.

Response by SGT Nathan Huff made Feb 8 at 2014 7:58 PM

SGT Nathan Huff — Sat, 08 Feb 2014 19:58:37 -0500

It was a beautiful rendition of America the Beautiful.

My parents, grand parents yes spoke english but If I continue back I find many languages not just English in my past. German, Dutch, English, Welsh, Scott Gaelic, Irish Gaelic, Cherokee, Kickapoo, now that I married some one from another country as did my brother, even more diversity has been added. America is a country of diversity, not a country of English only.

As I have traveled the states you will find cities divided by ethnical backgrounds and languages can vary as to the nationality of the neighborhood. Entire cities build by two different Cultures. Dubuqu Iowa is a good example of a city built by two different cultures that was built by the Germans and Irish. there down town is divided down the center were you have German town and Irish. German Catholic cathedral across from a ST Patricks Irish cathedral. That is what makes our country so much more beautiful. We are not bound to one culture, we are more diverse then any country in the world.

So singing the song in many languages should not of been offensive. It represented our country to its very core.

Response by Lt Col Robert June made Feb 9 at 2014 8:12 PM

Lt Col Robert June — Sun, 09 Feb 2014 20:12:25 -0500

I didn't like it. I know that Coke did it respectfully, but I still don't want to hear it. It lost something. MCPO Treants said it very well. This was like opera in English or baseball in Italian. It is also likely me to make me drink Pepsi.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2014 7:00 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 07:00:27 -0500

What? okay I know I only speak English but "America's" national language is FARRRRRR from English. there is every language here especially Spanish in huge quantities and how can you say English unites us when all the dang rednecks yell at the "foreigners" to speak 'merican!. It was a beautiful song. and for your justification of being mixed nationality and tri-lingual that just makes your opinion worse. and the military is so full of other languages I don't go a day without hearing a U.S. army soldier speak Spanish or Korean or some other thing I don't understand. Embrace the melting pot. hooah

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 4 at 2014 11:49 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 11:49:01 -0500

Oh, interesting side note, every single scene/culture/location in the commercial is located right here in the US. None of this was filmed abroad.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2014 11:52 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 11:52:42 -0500

I think it's awesome. every country should know just how Amazing this country is and "America the beautiful" says just how great it is.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2014 8:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 20:47:51 -0500

No one is native to this country outside groups like Cherokee, Navajo, Iroquois, Seminole, etc.

America is named after an Italian guy: Amerigo Vespucci.

I understand what Coke was trying to do here. It's an American product that brings people together, granted I don't know how and don't really like the drink. Coke has always been a multi-national product, but still a big representative of American business around the world.

The principle idea of this country was to accept everyone exactly as they are and allow them to continue to be that way. People immigrated here to escape oppression and persecution. That's what we fight/fought for every day. We do/did this job to allow people in this country to practice their beliefs freely. Yes, English is the language of our country, but it's not the only one. Non-English speakers came here for a reason. They believe America is as great as we do. The hostility towards Coke contradicts everything for which we swore an oath. I'm completely aware there are illegal immigrants here, but that's not the purpose of this discussion.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 9:33 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:33:03 -0400

I don't see it as such a big deal. The controversy over this commercial, in my opinion, is about as ridiculous as the controversy over the Cheerios commercial featuring an interracial couple. Don't people have anything better to do than get upset over a 60 second commercial? If you don't like it so much, change the channel.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Mar 31 at 2014 11:04 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 31 Mar 2014 23:04:39 -0400

Loved it, Absolutely loved it, Celebrating American Diversity, I am a German, English, Scottish, French, American. I am a Cryptologic Technician that worked hand in hand with Military Linguist and I think the lead off was in Tagalog.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Mar 23 at 2015 8:36 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 20:36:49 -0400

I'm with you CMDCM Gene Treants!

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jan 26 at 2016 11:24 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 11:24:19 -0500

WOW!!! The world's people should do more of that. I think that this is beautiful.