Is The Flag Still Flying?

Before the bombardment of Fort McHenry of the War of 1812, Frances Scott Key was negotiating for the release of prisoners who were onboard a British ship about a thousand yards offshore. After the bombardment, the prisoners asked Key, “Tell us where the flag is… what have they done with the flag? Is the flag still flying over the rampart, tell us.” Three hours after the shelling from the entire British naval fleet, the flag was still standing. The British admiral said to Francis Scot Key, “Your people are insane. What’s the matter with them?” Francis Scot Key said what George Washington said, “... he will die on his feet before he lives on his knees.” That is what it means to be an American; to help your fellow neighbor, not to hate them. That is what the American flag represents.

Frost Mchenry & Francis Scott Key’s Star Spangled Banner: