Old glory

I was going through my articles I have collected over the years and found this little gem. The author is unknown.

I AM THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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 KheSan, Saigon, Vietnam

Know me, I was there. I led my troops, I was dirty, battle worn 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.