Old Glory provides solace and a humbling moment

Praise the power that hath made and preserved us a nation.

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: “In God is our trust.”

And the Star Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Although it happens on U.S. military sites every day, never will I witness the passing of our national banner without remembering that morning and the resounding silence, awe and majesty when our world stopped to pay homage to home, family, valor and honor — and those who stand firm to preserve it.

Ed Smith is a freelance writer, golfer and fly fisherman. He resides in West Bountiful. He can be contacted at efsmithwrites@gmail.com