I Am The American Flag

Have I ever mentioned that I live in the greatest neighborhood, ward, town and country in the world?!  If not, let me tell you, I live in the greatest neighborhood, ward, town and country in the whole world!!!  Every 4th of July our neighborhood gets together to enjoy each other's company and celebrate Independence Day.  This year, it was our turn to plan the day's events along with the Peterson's.  We added a few simple and low-cost activities that I think were a big hit.  The first of which was the flag raising ceremony.  I think this was Brandon's and Dana's idea though I have often thought it would be a great tradition.  

I remember on Independence Day that my family would post our flag in the front of our house while we recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sung the National Anthem.  I am sure, though I don't remember, that I was embarrassed at times, but now I am happy for those memories.  I am so grateful to have been raised in a family that not only appreciated, but cherished our country, it's history and the principles it stands for.  I count myself fortunate to have parents that love their country and the freedoms it offers.   Now, more than any other time I have experienced, our country needs more people like that.  More individuals need to proudly admire the flag and the land it represents.  More citizens need to actively care for and nourish those patriotic sentiments that make this nation great.  I hope I do my part.  I hope this flag raising ceremony helped others to want to do their part too.  

I am also anxious to post these pics so that Randy can see what a great job his sons did.  I know he reads this blog and I am certain he will be proud.  

We asked my friend, Randy, to officiate in the flag raising ceremony, but he is on a mission in the Southern hemisphere.  His son, Adam, was more than willing to step in and perform the duties.  He invited his friend, Will, to assist him.  

We also were blessed to have Ethan, Hayden and Zach assist in the ceremony.

As the flag was raised, Janette led us in singing the National Anthem

Adam read a poem that his Father asked him to read called, "I am the American Flag".

We had about 50 in attendance, yet we gobbled up 108 donuts afterward!

We then collectively were lead in the Pledge of Allegiance

What a great start to Leah's first Fourth of July

I AM THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
By Howard Schnauber

I am the flag of the United States of America.
My name is "Old Glory".
I fly atop the world's tallest buildings.
I stand watch in America's halls of 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 Valley Forge, Gettysburg,
Shiloh and Appomattox.
I was there at San Juan Hill,
the trenches of France,
in the Argonne Forest, Anzio, Rome
and the beaches of Normandy, Guam,
Okinawa, Korea, and Vietnam.
I was there. I led my troops.
I was dirty, battle-weary 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.

I have been soiled upon, burned, torn
and trampled on the streets of my country.
And when it's by those whom I've served in battle -- it hurts.
But I shall overcome -- for I am strong.

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 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,
When I am flown at half-mast to honor my soldier,
Or when I lie in the trembling arms
of a grieving parent at the grave of their fallen son or daughter,
I am proud.

MY NAME IS "OLD GLORY".
LONG MAY I WAVE.
DEAR GOD IN HEAVEN,
LONG MAY I WAVE.