Old Glory Speaks Its Peace... vol 5, rel 11

Dear America,

As you may not know, I have not always been the celebrated standard bearer. I hail from humble beginnings, In fact, in Massachusetts, Aug 2, 1777 soldiers cut up their shirts to make my white stripes, and the red ones were from scarlet material from flannel petticoats of the soldier’s wives.  An Army Captain, Capt. Swartwout cut up his blue coat for the union standard.  All so I can lead with them into a month long battle in the Siege of Fort Stanwix.  Little did I know this would be a lifelong endeavor...

• In Sept 14, 1814, I watched our defenses be stretched to the limit, among the sulfur, ashes, and explosions, I defiantly withstood the British warships bombarded at Fort McHenry…

• In Feb 23, 1945, I stood on top of Mount Suribachi at Iwo Jima where 26,000 Americans lost their lives to grant me that privilege to wave in the breeze of a quieting battle…

• In July 21, 1969, I stood in the blinding white powdered soil covered in a canopy of black in nearly zero gravity on the moon with a little help from Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin of the Apollo 11 mission…

• In April 25 1976, I waved to thunderous applause with Dodger center-fielder Rick Monday as he snatched me from the hands of two men who tried to burn me in protest in front of thousands of baseball fans.

• In Sept 11, 2001, I was risen solemnly by the NY Fire Dept. at ground zero commemorating the more than 2000+ Americans that lost their lives to a senseless terrorist act.

Despite all the pain, sorrow, tragedy, and death you sustain to keep this country free, or the triumphant endeavors you hold in highest esteem, you have always graciously allowed me to preside there with you as a reminder that my colors represent more than your rights, freedom, and hopes, but also your hearts.

So, when I see you place your hand on your heart, and stand for me – it just reminds me the one thing that makes all of this is worthwhile.  You…

- Your humble American Flag