The Flag at Sumter

Yes, they have raised the Flag again—Who dares to strike it low?Its light burns into every veinThat hath one pulse to glow;It is the same bright Flag that roseAbove oppression's frown,Our Land's first challenge to its foes—Who dares to strike it down?

The same proud Eagle turns his gazeTo freedom's rising sun;Those sacred stars first lit their blazeO'er deathless Washington:That Flag!—it is our honor's vest—It is our glory's crown,A heart-thrill in the Nation's breast—Who dares to strike it down?

That Flag is Union's jeweled belt,It girds Columbia round;Each motion that her life hath felt,That starry sash hath bound.Our wars have bathed it with red tears,Our peace will fadeless glow,The pledge of past to future yearsWho dares to strike it low?