Living in Northern Colorado means that every now and then my family has reason to drive through Wyoming. Often when we do so it’s at noon. Usually, I wouldn’t take notice of something so trivial. The reason I’m aware is because at noon in Wyoming the National Anthem plays. No matter the day, location, or station you can hear “The Star Spangled Banner” on Wyoming radio at noon, every day. I like that the ritual is daily, and not because a sporting event is about to begin. The lyrics, “Land of the free, and home of the brave,” have withstood the test of time. They are a testament to what it means to be an American. We must continue to be brave and stand up for what we believe in, in order to remain free.
What started out as a poem by Francis Scott Key in 1814 https://www.history.com/topics/19th-century/the-star-spangled-banner was not adopted as the official American Anthem until 1931. Its popularity over the century led to increased symbolism of the American flag during the Civil War. After which the words “Land of the Free” began to ring true for more and more. As a country we have learned and changed, and we will continue to do so. America is a great country. I pray that we remember our greatness by setting aside our differences and putting forth our common interests.
In America we are safe from the “rockets’ red glare” and ” bombs bursting in air.” We can’t in good conscience send troops to foreign countries and teach peace if peaceful living is not present on our shores. Protecting our freedoms and peace here is just as important. Let’s be thankful for the United States of America, and behave as a united nation. When you look at your clock as the noon hour strikes each day think of the National Anthem, not because 4th of July is around the corner but because every day we are living in “The land of the free and the home of the brave.” We must continue to be brave defending our rights so future generations can be free.
