God Bless the USA

Other than “God Bless America,” there is not any other patriotic song that stirs our hearts more than Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless The USA.” We hear it often— it reminds us of what we have as Americans.

Lee Greenwood wrote “God Bless The USA” while riding in the back of his tour bus in 1983. He said that as he toured with so many different acts, he got inspired to write this song, which would eventually become America’s most recognized anthem.

In 1983, Greenwood was already a successful, talented songwriter. And, he had a track record of finding and recording music that resonated with his fans.

Greenwood said “God Bless the USA”’s status as an American classic was cultivated over many years and historic events. Each time more Americans heard it, they found it to be a song of spirit and unity. It didn’t happen overnight.”

Lee Greenwood has spent over 40 years proving that his love for this country is not just a performance. It is who he is. He has done USO tours for the troops since 1989, when he first traveled along with Bob Hope. Even at age 83, and a son of a Navy veteran, he is still getting on a plane and showing up wherever the troops need him.

We say, “Thank you” to Lee Greenwood for his inspired talent that gave us “God Bless The USA.”

As I continue to think of patriotism, I also think of our own Olney poet and storyteller, Shad Sullivan. His poem, “Brody, Bill, and Shawn,” is a heart-rending, patriotic story of three ranch cowboys who went off to war. Their spurs were hung on the wagon wheel that hung over the dining room table, with the promise that their spurs would hang there until their return—they did not make it home. The spurs still hang there on the wagon wheel in honor of Brody, Bill, and Shawn!

“Thank you, Shad Sullivan,” for sharing your God-given talent and patriotism.