The United States Flag

I AM YOUR FLAG

I was born on June 14, 1777 .

 I am more than just a piece of cloth shaped into a design.

I am the refuge of the world’s oppressed.

I am the silent sentinel of freedom.

I am the inspiration for which American patriots gave their lives and fortunes.

I have led your sons into battle from Valley Forge to the bloody jungles of Vietnam .

I walk in silence with your honored dead to their resting places beneath the silent white crosses, row on row.

  I have flown through peace and war, strife and prosperity and amidst it all I have been respected.

My red stripes symbolize the blood spilled in defense of this glorious nation.

My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Americans who have lost their sons.

My blue field in indicative of Gods’ heaven under which I fly.

My stars are clustered together unifying 50 states in one, for God and country.

“Old Glory” is my nickname, and I proudly wave on high.

Honor me, respect me, defend me with you lives and your fortunes.

Never let my enemies tear me down from my lofty position, lest I never return.

Keep alight the fires of patriotism.

Strive earnestly for the spirit of democracy.

Worship eternal God and keep his commandments.

And I shall remain the bulwark of peace and freedom for all mankind.

Author Unknown

A Toast To The Flag

Here’s to the red of it, there’s not a thread of it, no nor a shred of it, in all the spread of it from foot to head.  But heroes bled for it, faced steel and lead for it, precious blood shed for it, bathing it red.

Here’s to the white of it, thrilled by the sight of it, who knows the right of it but feels the might of it through day and night.  Womanhood’s care for it, made manhood dare for it, purities prayer for it keeps it so white.

Here’s to the blue of it, beauteous view of it, heavenly hue of it, star spangle dew of it, constant and true.  Diadem gleams for it, states stand supreme for it, liberties beam for it brightens the blue.

Here’s to the whole of it, stars, stripes and pole of it.  Body and soul of it, oh, and the role of it, sun shining through.  Hearts in accord for it, swear by the sword for it, thanking the Lord for it.  RED – WHITE – and BLUE.

John J. Daily, 1917

Articles Relating to the US Flag

Days to Fly the Flag

U.S. Flag etiquette

Fly it on High by NCSSAR Chaplain Rev. Clark Wiser. The meaning behind the ceremonial folding of the Flag.