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 great institutes 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 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 worshiped, I am saluted, I am respected I am revered, I am loved, and I am feared. For over 200 years I have fought. In Gettysburg, Shilo, San Juan Hill, the trenches of France, the beaches of Normandy, the jungles of Vietnam, the deserts of Iraq, Afghanistan, I was there. I led my soldiers, I followed them. I watched over them. I was on a small hill in Iwo Jima. I was dirty, battle-worn and tired, but my soldiers cheered and loved me, I was proud. I have been soiled, burned, torn and trampled on the streets of countries I have helped set free. It does not hurt, for I am strong. I have been soiled, burned, torn and trampled on the streets of my country, and when it is by those with whom I have served in battle - it hurts. But I shall overcome, for I am strong. I have slipped the bonds of Earth and stand watch over the uncharted new frontiers of space from my vantage point on the moon. I have been a silent witness to all of America's finest hours. But my finest hour comes when I am torn into strips to be used for bandages for my wounded comrades on the field of battle, When I fly at half mast to honor my soldiers, And when I lie in the trembling arms of a grieving mother at the graveside of her fallen son. I am proud. My name is Old Glory. Dear God, Long may I wave. Original poem by Howard Schnauber - Who served in the Marine Corps http://library.ci.fort-collins.co.us/Local_history/topics/WWII/hist3b15.htm
