I am the FLAG of the United States of America. My name is Old Glory. I flew 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 at me 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 loved.
I am revered.
I am respected
and I am feared.

I have fought in every battle of every war for more than 200 years. I was flown at Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Shiloh and Appromatox. I was there at San Juan Hill, the trenches of France, in the Ardonne Forest, Anzio, Rome, and the Beaches of Normandy, Guam, Okinawa, Korea and Khesan, Saigon, Vietnam.

I was there.

I led 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 to set free. It does not hurt, for I am invincible.

I have been soiled upon, burned, torn and trampled on the streets of my own 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 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.

My name is Old Glory.
Long may I wave.
Dear God in Heaven...
Long may I wave!