I am proud to be an American

Upon reflection of Memorial Day, the song that always comes mind is Lee Grenwood’s God Bless America. As a naturalized citizen it has a special meaning for me as I always think about the men and women who sacrificed their lives so we can enjoy the freedom that makes the U.S. the greatest country in the world. The first part of the last verse below reflects my thoughts exactly on days like today.

“And I am proud to be an American

Where at least I know I’m free

And I won’t forget the men who died

Who gave that right to me“

The families of those men and women also have a special place in my heart. It is important that we honor them and thank them for the service their sons and daughters provided our country.

The last part of the verse is equally moving for me because as an immigrant who lost his freedom and found it the U.S.A., I truly love this land. I am playing Lee’s song as I type these words and can tell you the song makes me emotional every time I play it.

”And I’d gladly stand up next to you

And defend her still today

‘Cause there ain’t no doubt

I love this land

God Bless the U.S.A.”

So lets celebrate on Memorial Day all the the men and women and their families who gave us the right to live in freedom.

Ralph