The Flag

Our family had the opportunity to attend a rodeo in Wyoming a couple of weeks ago.  They start this event with riders on horseback carrying the American flag.  As the rider gallops around the arena with the flag waving, the announcer recites the essay Old Glory.  I was so moved with the scene and the words, that I wanted to share a part of it.

“My name is Old Glory; I fly atop the world’s largest buildings; I stand watch in American’s halls of justice; I fly majestically over institutes of learning; I stand guard with 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.  I bow to no one.  I am worshiped, saluted, loved, revered, respected, feared.

I have fought in every battle of war for more than 200 years.  I was flown at Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Shiloh, and Appamatox.  I was there at San Juan Hill, trenches of France, the Argonne Forest, Anzio, Rome, and the beaches of Normandy. I was there in Iraq and Afghanistan, and atop the World Trade Center.

I was there.  I led my troops.  I was dirty, battleworn and tired, but my soldiers cheered me, and I was proud.

I have been burned, torn and trampled on the streets of countries that I have helped set free.  I shall overcome for I am strong.

I have borne silent witness to all America’s finest hours.  But my finest hours are yet to come.  When I am torn into strips and used as bandages for my wounded comrades on the battlefield or when I am flown at halfmast to honor my soldiers or when I lie in the trembling arms of a grieving parent at the grave of their fallen son or daughter.

I am proud.  I am the flag of the United States of America.”  (There are several versions of this, but this one is by Howard Schnauber,)

As we celebrate, the fourth of July, I pray for the USA and the flag that proudly waves!