Patriot – Author: Unknown   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 the american way. 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 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.   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.   PLEASE FORWARD MY MESSAGE TO ALL WHO STILL LOVE AND RESPECT ME, THAT I MAY FLY PROUDLY FOR ANOTHER TWO HUNDRED YEARS. ============================================================= "Peace is not won by those who fiercely guard their differences, but by those who with open minds and hearts seek out connections." - Katherine Paterson "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead