By John Fedele

Tis the 4th of July, birth date of our nation and, somewhat ironic, the date some of our founding fathers passed away (Adams,Monroe,Jefferson) and one president was born (Coolidge).

It is also the day I play my John Wayne tape, “America, Why I Love Her”.  The tape has been with me for 20 years.  I have played it at most of the AFJROTC Awards Ceremonies.

This time, while listening to John Wayne do the Pledge of Allegiance the tape broke.

Now, I am not one who looks for signs or messages in random occurrences, but, I must admit this time was different.  While the tape was playing, I was also reading an article in Parade about the Star Spangled Banner and how so many great, and not so great performers had trouble remembering the words and how many musicians have changed the style and beat of the music. They did not mention my favorite complaint: Not many people know the other three verses.

The article was touting the often argued point that the Star Spangled Banner was not the best symbol of America.  Actually, America is the best symbol of America.

The song “America The Beautiful” portrays the nation better than a flag.  Besides, we are the only nation whose National Anthem honors a symbol rather than the country. That symbol has become a tool for those who dislike the country and it’s policies.  They burn the flag in protest. Maybe we should take away that tool.

Maybe we need to listen to the first cut on the John Wayne tape and maybe we should consider changing the National Anthem to America the Beautiful