Happy Independence Day

Happy Independence Day to all you Americans out there! I have to say that I, for one, am VERY glad that our forefathers saw fit to declare independence from England and that my particular ancestors decided to leave their homelands to come the the Land of Plenty. As much as I love the German culture, I much prefer my American heritage. So, coming from the wonderful Capital that I live so very close to, pictures of OUR heritage as Americans.

First is the flag from Fort McHenry. And in case you can't see what is written on the glass between the cleaning room and the visitors of the Smithsonian, I've put it below the picture.

Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

And, before you go, don't forget to enjoy the fireworks tonight. Here are the best in the country that I've seen. Have a Happy 4th of July!