I am the flag of the United States of America. 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 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 loved, and I am feared!

 

I have fought in every battle of every war for more than 200 years: Gettysburg, Shiloh, Appomattox, San Juan Hill, the trenches of France, the Argonne Forest, Anzio, Rome, the beaches of Normandy, Guam, Okinawa, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and a score of places long forgotten by all, but those who were there with me... I was there!

I led my Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. I followed them and watched over them. They loved me. I was on a small hill in Iwo Jima. I was dirty, battle-worn, and tired. But my Soldiers cheered me! And I was proud!

I have been soiled, burned, torn, and trampled on the streets of countries that I have helped set free. It does not hurt, for I am invincible. I have also been soiled, burned, torn, and trampled on the streets of my own country and, when it is by those whom I have served with in battle-it hurts. But I shall overcome, for I am strong! I have slipped the bonds of Earth and, from my vantage point on the Moon, I stand watch over the uncharted new frontiers of Space.

 

I have been a silent witness to all of America's finest hours. But my finest hour comes when I am torn in strips to be used as bandages for my wounded comrades on the field of battle-when I fly at half-mast to honor my Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines, and-when I lie in the trembling arms of a grieving mother, at the gravesite of her fallen son or daughter.

 

I am proud.   My name is Old Glory-long may I wave. Dear God, long may I wave.

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