National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior
Fort McHenry
National Monument
and Historic Shrine
June 16, 2012
The American Flag Foundation is pleased to co-host this evening’s event with the
National Park Service at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine for the
annual Flag Day celebrations and for the Kick-off of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812
festivities!
In 1812, the United States declared war on Great Britain, then the largest naval power
in the world, due to Great Britain’s seizure of American merchant vessels and the forcible
drafting, or impressment, of 6,000 American citizens for service in the Royal Navy. A
war for “Free Trade & Sailors’ Rights” was also seen by some as an opportunity to expel
the British out of Canada.
The United States suffered many costly defeats over the course of the War of 1812. In
August 1814, our nation’s capital was captured and burned, and on September 13, 1814,
Fort McHenry – the very ground we are standing on today - withstood 25 hours of heavy
bombardment. However, the following morning, an enormous American Flag, a sight
that inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner,” was hoisted in the
“dawn’s early light!” Many in the United States celebrated the War of 1812 as a “second
war of independence,” ushering in the so-called “Era of Good Feelings,” an era of partisan
agreement and national pride.
It is with “good feelings” that The American Flag Foundation and the National Park
Service welcome you here today to celebrate our Flag. Enjoy the evening!
President The American Flag Foundation, Inc. Superintendent
Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine
The American Flag Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization whose purpose is to develop the resources
and create the opportunities for all citizens, especially children, to learn the history of our nation, the
symbol of our Flag and their role in building the future.
As an official partner with Star-Spangled 200, The American Flag Foundation
is engaged in a variety of upcoming events and hope that you consider
becoming a member.
You can find us on the web at www.americanflagfoundation.org
Celebration of the American Flag
PRE-PROGRAM ENTERTAINMENT
“Africa” “Jump” by Maryland Sings under the direction of Bill Myers
WELCOME
Don Scott, WJZ – Master of Ceremonies
PRESENTATION OF THE COLORS
Cavalry Troop A, Maryland Defense Force under the command of LTC David Robeson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by Patricia A. Perluke, Executive Vice-President, The American Flag Foundation
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Escape under the direction of Bill Myers
All are invited to join in singing your National Anthem
INVOCATION
Chaplain (Colonel) William Sean Lee, Dmin., B.C.C.
Joint Force Headquarters Chaplain, Maryland National Guard
FLY-OVER
GREETINGS FROM FORT MCHENRY
Tina Orcutt, Superintendent, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
PERFORMANCE
“Battle Hymn of the Republic” “America the Beautiful” “God Bless the U. S. A.” by Escape
GREETINGS FROM THE AMERICAN FLAG FOUNDATION
John A. Butler, President
PERFORMANCE
by the Morgan State University Choir
PERFORMANCE
“American Honey” Original Ballet by Angela Hart of Galax, Virginia
PERFORMANCE
“The Stars and Stripes/Grand Old Flag Medley” “Dream” “The Irving Berlin Medley” by ShowTime Singers
PARADE OF STATE FLAGS
An historical presentation of state flags with musical accompaniment narrated by Don Scott
PERFORMANCE
“My America” “Jersey Boys Medley” by ShowTime Singers
PERFORMANCE
“Sing” “We Go Together” “Rap of the States” by Off-Broadway Kids/Stage 3/Maryland Singers
LAYING OF THE MEMORIAL WREATH ON THE RAMPARTS
In Memory of those who fought and died for our country, by Middle East Region Honor Guard
History of Taps by Ranger Vince Vaise, Chief of Interpretation, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
“Taps” under the direction of LTC Meredith Phares
PERFORMANCE
“American Me and You” “Time Warp” “Declaration” by Stage 3/Maryland Singers/Off-Broadway Kids
CLOSING COMMENTS
Don Scott
SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS BY ZAMBELLI
The American Flag Foundation • americanflagfoundation.org