America’s Doughboys
This year, the United States Army (The Doughboys) will be celebrating celebrating its 250th anniversary commemorating the founding of the Continental Army by the Second Continental Congress in 1775, the Second Continental Congress voted to form the Continental Army to defend the colonies against the British, and the Army’s distinguished service to our nation. Since its official establishment, June 14, 1775 the U.S. Army has played a vital role in the growth and development of the American nation. Preparing for the future, the Army looks back on its past. “This we’ll defend” was first used as a battle cry by the Continental Army and is the theme for this years 250th celebration! To fight and win the nation’s wars is the Army’s purpose. They set these goals , living the values that have defined our Army culture for the past 250 years, enforcing standards and discipline, and to remain committed to honing warfighting skills. The Army helps create a sense of purpose through personal growth and professional development. It has supported our nation, while bearing true faith and allegiance to the country, the Constitution, their units and fellow team members.
Holding true to their motto “to be all you can be!” As a result, empowering Soldiers to be part of something greater than themselves.
“For 250 years, Soldiers have proudly served our country and protected its people, with our oath to support and defend the Constitution as our guiding principle,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael R.
Weimer. “We continue to stand ready to respond to the needs of the nation, and to fight and win when called upon. “This we’ll defend!” From the Revolutionary War, Americans have served selflessly, sacrificing their freedom in defense of the nation. Their courage, loyalty and dedication have inspired generations, forging a proud tradition of service.”
Both, my young bride Stella’s Daddy and my Dad, my two brothers, and other family members have proudly served in the U.S. Army ranks.
AMERICA’S DOUGHBOYS T’was a grand patriotic celebration, That humid summer day on the town square, As one and all gave their acclamation, For the nations heroes honored there.
A smile formed, as he blinked a tear, while Old Glory fluttered through.
He stood, saluted, an’ gave a cheer for comrade an’ freedom held true.
The ol’ gent with the white shock of hair stood tall and proud to salute Old Glory.
The symbol of our freedom marched there!
And folks… therein, lies our story.
A story of patriots, strong and brave, That would stand to answer the call, to protect the rights of a nation to save and to halt, God given freedoms fall.
The crowd gathered on the court house square, to honor gallant folks that stood to fight and to stop the tyrant in his lair, thus help the downtrodden masses unite! Prayers for the blessings of Almighty God were on the lips of this gallant force. Around them, chaos, while blood covered the sod, but faith and God’s strength helped them stay the course!
This valiant group paid a terrible price, but liberation forces pressed on, as freedom was saved by their sacrifice… These grand Patriots that we have known. So, for these patriots, we thank the Lord, for their faith and determination. They struck a death blow to the tyrant’s horde, a victory for civilization! An’ though he smiled while blinking a tear, His heart went out to family an’ friend, Some gave their all an’ were no longer here, Tho valor an’ mem’ries would never end. An’ the old gent stood tall an’ snapped a salute, To honor those comrades an’ say “Thank you”, Proud to be among those that gave tribute, In memory of patriot so true. Then he slowly bowed his head in prayer, For guidance for the path our nation would trod, An’ the future of mankind be free an’ fair Firmly clasped in the loving hands of God.
© Ol’ Jim Cathey
250 years…Go Army!
God bless the United States Army and God Bless America!