IF there was any good that came of the terrible events of September 11, 2001, it was the apparent awakening of a long dormant American patriotism.  Everyday observations as well as media coverage recorded abundant signs of national unity. Never in anyone’s memory had so many American flags been displayed. Of particular note was the patriotic upsurge among the young. The press reported an increase in the number of people seeking to enter the armed forces, and recruiting offices, it was claimed, were deluged with inquiries.