by Kimberly Sexton

Created on: June 13, 2008

When America was a young and struggling nation, you were too.
But, as our country matured and gained independence, you grew with us.
Altered along the way, you have evolved into a prominent American icon,
Representing bravery, freedom, and all of those souls who fought for our civil liberties.

You never abandoned your presumed post, but served willingly and dutifully.

Regardless of civil unrest or international turmoil, you were the one constant.
Even after centuries of worldwide revolutions, we still look to you to unify our people.
Through all of America's dilemmas, you have become the epitome of perseverance.

You have valiantly journeyed around the world, without complaint.
You have stood resolute by courageous soldiers in perilous combat,
Waved ever so proudly over every state capital throughout our country,
And humbly proclaimed your colors above many of our very own homes.

You have heroically, and without question, voyaged to the mysterious moon
And through a plethora of hostile and wretched battlegrounds.
You have been boldly upheld on the distant shores of strange, foreign lands,
But also, through parades of merriment in familiar city streets.

You have been sadly lowered out of reverence for the loss of respectable comrades.
You have been serenaded at sporting events, to bestow on you our adoration.
You have been carefully stitched onto blue jeans and inked into human flesh,
As each pays tribute in his own unique style we judge not.

You have been respectfully and sorrowfully folded in death's honor,
Yet, splendidly displayed as a worldwide symbol of colossal Power,
All the while, you have maintained your dignity well, by representing us -
The American People.

Many famous men and women have proudly and willingly saluted you.
Nameless men and women have honorably given their lives for you.
Shameful men and women have disgracefully burned and abused you.
Yet, true Americans still sincerely respect and honor you.

You have been victimized, but never beaten down.
You have been capitalized upon, but never bought.
You have been criticized, but never been resentful.
You have been romanticized, but never acted arrogant.

You nobly advocate America's principles truth, honor, freedom, and courage.
You justly deserve a day of loyalty, tribute, and admiration.
For serving us exceptionally well, and without bitter complaints, we not only thank you,
We gratefully salute you on your day, National Flag Day.
Old Glory, Stars and Stripes, The Star Spangled Banner.

Flag Day: June 14, 2008

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