This is read during some of our ceremonies....it brings tears to most. I know it's long...but I thought today was a good day to share.
I am the Flag of the United States of America. My name is OLDE GLORY. I fly atop the world's tallest buildings I stand watch in America's Halls of Justice. I fly majestically over Great Institutions of Learning. I stand guard with the Greatest Military power in the World.
LOOK UP! and see ME!!!
I stand for Peace Honor Truth and Justice. I stand for Freedom!!
I am confident I am arrogant I am proud.
When I am flown with my fellow banners, my head is held a little higher - my colors are a little truer
I BOW TO NO ONE!
I am recognized all over the world.
I am worshipped - I am saluted - I am respected - I am Revered - I am loved - I am Feared!!
For more than 200 years, I have fought in Every battle of Every war;
Gettysburg, Shiloh, Appomattox, San Juan Hill, The Trenches of France, the Argenne Forest, Anzio, Rome, The Beaches of Normandy the jungles of Guam, Okinawa, Tarawa, Korea, Vietnam and in the heat of the Persian Gulf and a score of other places.
Long forgotten by all, but those who were there with me. I was there.
I led my Sailors and Marines, I followed them, I watch over them, they Love Me.
I was on a small hill on Iwo Jima. I was dirty battle torn and tired but my Sailors and Marines Cheered Me!!!!
I WAS PROUD!
I have been soiled burned torn and trampled on the streets of countries that I have helped to set Free.
It does not Hurt for I am invincibile.
I have been soiled burned torn and trampled on the streets of my own country
And when it is done by those whom with I have served in battle. It HURTS!!!
But I shall Overcome for I am strong!!
I have slipped the surly bonds of earth and, from my vantage point on the moon,
I stand watch over the New Frontiers of Space.
I have been the silent witness to all of America's finest hours.
I have flown over the top of the World Trade Centers.
and after September 11, 2001, I have flown over it's rubble to remind the evil in our world that my spirit will not be crushed.
The American people will not be broken.
But my finest hour comes when I am torn into strips,
To be used as bandages for my wounded comrades on the Field of Battle
When I fly half mast to Honor my Sailors and Marines
and when I lie in the trembling arms of a Grieving Mother - at the graveside of her fallen son or daughter
I am proud!
My Name is "Olde Glory" Long May I Wave Dear God, Long may I wave.
