Why is patriotism a GOOD quality?

Think about this, you were born in your country, and raised in it by your parents. What makes this country so special to you? Do you like the people? No, you dont know the majority of them. Do you like the government? Why? Its the same as every other democratical country. What about your country inspires you to be a patriot, other than the fact you were born and raised there? How do you know that's the country you want to fight for? Have you experienced every other country? Why are people who enlist in the military and die in action are considered to be heroes? Did you fight for freedom? Government is not freedom, its the lesser of two evils. Its nice they pay you currency which is owned by their government which would have no value if that country was overthrown. Pretty nice of them to cut you off a small slice of their pie, to die for them, becoming a hero to inspire other men and women to risk their lives for a decent pay.