Fourth of July, Stars and Stripes Forever, John Phillip Sousa

Let Freedom Ring! 

The Fourth of July, is the day when all of America celebrates it's Independence.  Last year, I happened to be in Siena, Italy of the 4th.  It was a little different being away from home on such a festive day.  So, this year, I hope to hear all the patriotic songs of celebration.

As freedom rings across the United States, we may go to the fireworks,  band concerts, picnics, parties, the beach, cookouts and family reunions.  Some families do it up with an extravaganza and others will be more laid back.  Whether you are in the city or a sprawling landscape, you can't help but pass the day enjoying each other without listening to some patriotic songs. 

Who doesn't enjoy John Phillips Sousa's Stars and Stripes Forever (The March King)


Let martial note in triumph float
And liberty extend its mighty hand
A flag appears 'mid thunderous cheers,
The banner of the Western land.
The emblem of the brave and true
Its folds protect no tyrant crew;
The red and white and starry blue
Is freedom's shield and hope.
Other nations may deem their flags the best
And cheer them with fervid elation
But the flag of the North and South and West
Is the flag of flags, the flag of Freedom's nation.


Hurrah for the flag of the free!
May it wave as our standard forever,
The gem of the land and the sea,
The banner of the right.
Let despots remember the day
When our fathers with mighty endeavor
Proclaimed as they marched to the fray
That by their might and by their right
It waves forever.


Let eagle shriek from lofty peak
The never-ending watchword of our land;
Let summer breeze waft through the trees
The echo of the chorus grand.
Sing out for liberty and light,
Sing out for freedom and the right.
Sing out for Union and its might,
O patriotic sons.
Other nations may deem their flags the best
And cheer them with fervid elation,
But the flag of the North and South and West
Is the flag of flags, the flag of Freedom's nation.


Hurrah for the flag of the free.
May it wave as our standard forever
The gem of the land and the sea,
The banner of the right.
Let despots remember the day
When our fathers with might endeavor
Proclaimed as they marched to the fray,
That by their might and by their right
It waves forever.