F. William Broome

FREEDOM’S EMBLEM

A simple cut of cloth three feet wide
five feet long seamed with grommets
for tying to a staff in public display.
Our flag is being reborn with new respect
in the infamy of September Eleven
a strike against America never to heal.
Fifteen square feet of three-colored cloth
defines citizens’ deepening patriotism
affirmed visual proof that we are united.
Forever our standard our emblem and seal
to which we pledge personal duty and fortunes,
to preserve freedom and rights of a people.
Stars of fifty states plus thirteen stripes
signifying a new country formed by
committed men died binding together America;
No greater privilege than to be a flag waver
for a selfless republic maintained by a freely
elected government from its own citizens.
A priceless bit of cloth is our respected flag
flying in return for those willing to serve
in harm’s way for our nation’s survival.