The first time I heard this was at my brother's graduation from the Army Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, back in 1982. It was being held in a small auditorium. The lights were out, there was a spot light on an American Flag on center stage, and this was read.
My parents and I were so touched by it, we contacted the base later
and got the words. Since then, it has been used twice in my father's
shows, done the same way, in darkness, the American flag waving on
center stage...
Some people call me Old Glory, others call me the Star-Spangled Banner, but whatever they call me, I am your flag, the flag of the United States of America.
I remember some time ago people lined upon both sides of the street to watch the parade and, naturally, I was always there, proudly waving in the breeze.
When your daddy saw me coming, he immediately removed his hat and placed it over his heart. Remember? And you. I remember you standing there, straight as a soldier. You didn't have a hat but you were giving the right salute.
What happened? I'm still the same old flag. Oh, I have added a few more stars since you were a boy, and a lot more blood has been shed since those parades of long ago. But I don't feel as proud as I used to. When I come down your street, you just stand there with your hands in your pockets. I may get a small glance but then you look away.
I see the children running around and shouting. They don't seem to know who I am. I saw one man take off his hat and look around. He didn't see anybody else with his hat off so he quickly put his back on. Is it a sin to be patriotic? Have you forgotten what I stand for and where I've been? Anzio, Normandy, Omaha Beach, Guadalcanal, Korea and Vietnam.
Take a look at the memorial honor rolls sometime. Look at the names of those who never came back in order to keep this republic free. One nation under God. When you salute me, you are actually saluting them.
Well, It won't be long until I'll be coming down your street again. So when you see me, stand straight, place your right hand over your heart. I'll salute you by waving back. And I'll know that you remembered.