Happy Birthday America

I took this picture of the flag flying over Fort McHenry facing Baltimore Harbor-how many of us know the history behind our National Anthem?

Francis Scott Key was a poet and a PATRIOT. During the war with England in 1812, he boarded a British ship in Baltimore Harbor under a flag of truce with the hope of securing the release of his good friend, Dr. William Beanes. Dr. Beanes had been captured by the British. They had expected to return to shore quickly but the British fleet was preparing to attack Fort McHenry and they both were detained on the the ship for the night. "In the darkness of the night, the two men had no way of knowing whether the enemy attack had been successful. But at the first light of dawn, they could see the American flag still waving from Fort McHenry. Their relief and gratitude were overwhelming, and Francis Scott Key immediately began to write, "The Star-Spangled Banner." This poet and PATRIOT "transformed one suspenseful night into words that symbolize for all Americans not only the sacrifices that have been made for freedom but also the vigilance with which this blessing must be guarded." (Karen Lynn Davidson)
With that I say, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!" And to the many men and women serving our country within or outside the walls of the USA-I say "THANK YOU!" Please know that your diligent service and sacrifice for all of us does not go unnoticed.
We miss you, Jacob Bowden, and you will be in our prayers always as you serve us proudly in Afghanistan!!! Today when asked who in our family was serving overseas...Richard proudly said, "my brother." He loves you so much-Aunt Sabrina and Uncle Richard!!!