“The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa, widely considered to be his magnum opus, is the official “National March” of the United States of America. It’s also one of our favorite musical performances, and we love this rendition by the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

I was first introduced to Sousa marches through the military and I really enjoyed the performance of the Utah National Guard’s 23rd Army Band performing at the annual Governor’s Day event where the Governor of Utah would “review the troops.”

Though often played instrumental, Sousa did compose lyrics for his magnum opus. This is the last stanza, labeled to be played “grandioso.”

Hurrah for the flag of the free.
May it wave as our standard forever
The gem of the land and the sea,
The banner of the right.
Let tyrants remember the day
When our fathers with mighty endeavor
Proclaimed as they marched to the fray,
That by their might and by their right
It waves forever.

Elisa and I are enjoying family time in Bear Lake with most of our children who have made it home from around the country. We hope you enjoy our selection of music for this Sunday Reflection as we each find our way to honor and remember our beautiful country.

We love you, friends!