Our country will be 249 years old on July 4th this year. Our nation was founded on the concept of freedom, and proudly, it remains so 249 years later. Wars were fought, and lives were lost in the defense of the freedoms we now enjoy. Millions of men and women (yours truly included) have worn the uniform of the United States to protect and preserve a nation conceived in liberty.
Although many will sing “Happy Birthday” to America, I felt it was appropriate to honor our nation’s birthday with two of the most patriotic songs ever written, and create videos using a few pictures taken on trips Helen and I have made through our staggeringly beautiful country. (Click on the video to view them)
The “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” written in 1861 by poet and abolitionist Julia Ward Howe, was a favorite of Northern troops fighting to preserve the Union and abolish slavery. The words are powerful and, more importantly, they tell listeners what we were fighting for, rather than what we were fighting against. At times, I am overcome with emotion when I hear it sung.
“God Bless America” was penned by the great Irving Berlin in 1938 as Hitler was forming a powerful army to conquer Europe and then attempt to take on the world. It was made famous through the powerful voice of Kate Smith and was an immediate hit when she first sang it on her radio show shortly after it was written. Many Americans wanted “God Bless America” to replace “The Star-Spangled Banner” as our National Anthem, but Berlin refused, saying that a National Anthem cannot be replaced. Nevertheless, both he and Kate Smith did the right thing and have donated all royalties from the song to the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America, a commitment which lives to this day.
As each of you enjoys hot dogs, fireworks, family, friends, and a well-deserved day off, please pause for a moment or two to honor those brave souls who have given much over 249 years to keep our country proud, strong, and free.
Hope to see you on the road…we’re Easin’ Along.
Wonderful Big Daddy! Brought tears to my eyes! Thanks for reminding us of all we have to be thankful for 😘
Good morning, DeDe and thanks for stopping by. As an old soldier, I feel compelled to illustrate that the the beauty of our country and the proud people within it are worth defending. Have a wonderful Fourth (wherever you are). Hugs, Joe
Joe, great job with the videos and beautiful tribute to our country’s birthday. Thank you for your service and Happy 4th of July.
Happy Fourth, Suzanne. So glad you checked in. Our Nation’s beauty and the wonderful, hard-working people within it deserve a celebration in song. Have a great day! Big hugs! Joe
Beautifully done. Thank you for sharing and thank you for your service.
Hi, Jeanne!
Many thanks for your kind words. My service was an honor but others gave much more. Have a fabulous weekend and give Bill my best. Joe
Joe, your compilations were both lovely and poignant. Nicely done. There are no words that could possibly convey the gratitude we owe the men and women who fought to win our freedom and fought to keep it. Thank you for your service, and best wishes to you and Helen for a wonderful holiday weekend!
Hey there!
Thanks so much for the nice words. I’m glad you liked the videos. The words of the songs are sincere reminders of what it takes to keep a free country free. Hope you and Alan are enjoying the Fourth on your boat. Please stay in touch. Joe
Thank you for that heart stirring tribute. Beautifully done and you set the tone for a celebration of all that we have to be thankful for. Thank you and all other veterans for their service. During a walk today I found my self singing You’re A Grand Old Flag and recalled being taught to sing these patriot songs in grade school. God Bless America today and always! May she remain strong and free.
Nancy,
Thanks so much for checking in. What a pleasant way to spend time walking–I’m not sure I could remember the words, but so envious that you did. We’re so blessed to live in a country where freedom is all too often taken for granted. Thankfully, Independence Day reminds us of the sacrifices of the many who gave their all to keep us strong and free. Great to hear from you–have a fabulous Fourth and please come back! Joe