National Anthem Day

 National Anthem Day

On March 3rd, 1931 an Act of Congress made the Star Spangled Banner America’s national anthem. Recently, our national anthem has been under attack. Many teams and players from various sports have been kneeling during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner as a form of protest; and the flag was attacked during 2020's Black Lives Matter protests. America’s national anthem is not something to be ashamed of but reminds us of an inspiring time in our history!

Following the American War for Independence, Americans hoped to live in peace but France and England became engaged in a conflict that drew America back into war. The British captured American ships on the high seas and forced about 10,000 American sailors to fight for England. The United States declared war. Known as the War of 1812, it lasted until 1815.

In August 1814, England invaded Washington, D.C., setting fire to the Capitol, White House, and other government buildings. The British then marched to Baltimore, Maryland, and on September 13 began bombarding Fort McHenry. At that time, attorney Francis Scott Key was aboard a British ship negotiating the release of a friend. Throughout the long night, he watched the attack on Fort McHenry, fearing its fall, but when morning arrived, the American flag was still flying — the fort had survived the attack.

Inspired by these events, Francis Scott Key wrote down a few lines about the attack while still on board the ship and then wrote several more lines after reaching shore. Shortly thereafter they were published as a poem titled “Defence of Fort M’Henry.” Set to music in November of that year, it was named “The Star Spangled Banner.”

As we celebrate this anniversary, let’s remember that though America isn’t perfect we can be proud of the amazing things we’ve accomplished as a nation and continue to be grateful for the many blessings God has bestowed on us.