I was born June 14, 1777
I am more than just cloth shaped into a design.
I am the refuge of the world's oppressed people.
I am the silent sentinel of Freedom.
I am the emblem of the greatest sovereign nation on earth.
I am the inspiration for which American patriots gave their lives and fortunes.
I have led your sons into battle from Valley Forge to the jungles of Vietnam.
I walk in silence with each of your Honored Dead to their final resting place
beneath silent white crosses, row upon row.
I have flown through peace and war, strife and prosperity, and amidst it all I
have been respected.
My red stripes symbolize the blood spilled in defense of this glorious
Nation.
My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Americans who lost their
sons...
My blue field is indicative of God's heaven, under which I fly.
My stars, clustered together, unify 50 states as one, for God and Country.
"Old Glory" is my nickname, and proudly I wave on high.
Honor me, respect me, defend me with your lives and fortunes. Never let my
enemies tear me down from my lofty position, lest I never return. Keep alight
the fires of patriotism: strive earnestly for the spirit of democracy. Worship
Eternal God, and keep His Commandments: and I shall remain the bulwark of peace
and freedom for all mankind.
I AM YOUR FLAG. - written by Marine Master Sergeant Percy Webb for a flag
booklet distributed in 1933.