I am the flag of the
name is Old Glory. I fly atop the world's tallest
buildings. I stand watch in
justice. I fly majestically over institutions 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.
When I am flown with my fellow banners, my head is a
little higher, my colors a little truer. I bow to no
one! I am recognized all over the world.
I am worshipped - I am saluted.
I am loved - I am revered.
I am respected -- and I am feared.
I have fought in every battle of every war for more
then 200 years. I was flown at
Juan Hill
and
know me as a banner of freedom.
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 I have helped set free. It
does not hurt, for I am invincible.
It does hurt me a little when I am burned and trampled
by people who never served our country, or who
emigrated to live in this country, who enjoy the basic
freedoms that allow them to express their opinion of
me without fear of persecution.
I have slipped the bonds of Earth and stood watch over
the uncharted frontiers of space from my vantage point
on the moon. I have borne silent witness to all of
But my finest hours are yet to come.
I am proudest when I am torn into strips and used as
bandages for my wounded comrades on the battlefield,
when I am flown at half-mast to honor my countryman,
when I lie in the trembling arms of a grieving parent
at the grave of their fallen son or daughter,
or in the arms of a child or spouse who will have to
go on without their loved one who gave their life to
protect our precious freedom.
I am Old Glory.