GOD BLESS AMERICA -- IN THE NAME

 

Israel Isidore Beilin
May 11, 1888 – September 22, 1989

The name Irving, while not inherently Jewish, was a common secular or "Americanized" alternative to the traditional Hebrew names Isaac and Israel. So it was for Irving Berlin, one of the greatest American song writers there's ever been. He is famous for many songs, especially "God Bless America."  

The name "Berlin" may not have been the best choice, given the wars with Germany that were on the horizon, but Berlin's last name was not changed by anyone; it was a name he adopted. He began using the name "Berlin" after his actual last name, "Beilin," was misspelled on the sheet music for his first published song, "Marie from Sunny Italy," in 1907. He decided to keep the name, and it eventually became his legal name in 1911, well before both world wars. 

Before the rise of Hitler, Germany was the center of sophistication and Berlin was an extremely popular place for Jews to be.  That all came to a horrific end in Irving's life time.

The fall of Berlin and the 3rd Reich would lead to the rebirth of Israel.  You know who got to see it all. Imagine how Irving's heart must of swelled to see American's singing "God Bless America."

Irving Berlin was a Jewish Russian-born American composer and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential figures in American music history. 

Irving Berlin's family escaped violent anti-Jewish pogroms in the Russian Empire and immigrated to New York in 1893. Irving grew up in poverty on the Lower East Side.

Berlin had a simple, direct, and heartfelt song writing style. During his 50+ year career he wrote over 1,000 songs, including "White Christmas," "There's No Business Like Show Business," "Easter Parade," "Cheek to Cheek," and "Puttin' On The Ritz." 

Relevant Tanget Warning⚠️ 

Speaking of Jews who change their name to sound less "Jewish," I gotta give a shout out to Mel Brooks for his rendition of  "Puttin On The Ritz" with Gene Wilder and Peter Boyle in "Young Frankenstein." If you recall, the son of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein was trying to hide his heritage, so he battled with people over how to pronounce his last name. That was a humorous play on Jews who tried so hard in those years to "fit in" with society, but still couldn't. Broadway was one of the few industries that accepted Jews.  Even in the name (title) of the song, could be a little hint of humor. The prounounciation of "Puttin" is a less cultured way of saying "putting." Mel Brooks is a gift to America, especially Jews. He built bridges of understanding through humor and movies. 

"Puttin on the Ritz" was released in 1929, shortly after what is considered the "great wave" of Jewish immigration, with over 2 million Jews, primarily from Eastern Europe, arriving in the US.  Many Jews, like Irving's family, were trying to escape very depressing and difficult lives. America was the new promise land, and New York City was like Jerusalem -- the center for Jews. (Remember, the modern state of Israel hadn't been created until after the Holocaust and WWII.) 

Opening Lyric Verse Makes More Sense: 

If you're blue, and you don’t know where to go to, why don’t you go where fashion sits ... Puttin' on the Ritz.  

Getting Back to Berlin and His Song that Blessed America 

Berlin wrote scores for 19 Broadway shows and 18 movie musicals. He received numerous honors, including an Academy Award, a Grammy, a Tony, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. 

His most well known and beloved song has to be "God Bless America." It became the unofficial national anthem. It was written originally in 1918 and revised in 1938 by Berlin. 

In the Song's Name: "God Bless America" is Framed as a Prayer 

Those were wars years for the world. Irving's song makes a call to God to bless and guide the United States during tumultuous times. The song also expressed gratitude and patriotism, important needed emotions for then or any time, especially now.

Original 1918 Lyrics:

While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to a land that's free.
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer:
God bless America, land that I love,
Stand beside her and guide her
Through the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans white with foam,
God bless America, my home sweet home.
God bless America, my home sweet home.

"God Bless America" is sung on various occasions, most notably on Independence Day (July 4th) and Veterans Day.  It is also a regular feature at Major League Baseball games, particularly during the seventh-inning stretch, and especially on Sundays, Opening Day, and holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

In His Name 

I began this post with an explanation of Irving Berlin's first and last name changes -- From Israel Beilin to Irving Berlin.  There is an aspect about his original last name, "Beilin," that I find intriguing because of it's cool connection to the "God Bless America." 

"Beilin" is an Ashkenazi Jewish ethnic surname, particularly in Eastern Europe. It is believed to be derived from the Yiddish word "beyl," meaning "to be" or "to dwell," implying a connection to a specific place. The name is also linked to the name "Bella," another Ashkenazi Jewish surname that pops up. The name Bella, primarily of Italian origin, means "beautiful." Again, Berlin's first published song is "Marie from Sunny Italy." 

So, if you put the two origins of "Beilin" together I come up with "a beautiful place to be."  The lyrics of "God Bless America" describe a beautiful place to be. What an appropriate name! Coincidence? 

Coincidence or Mystery 

The ironic twist of fate is that Israel/Irving's last name was changed to "Berlin," the capital of Germany -- the country we went to war with. In every generation an enemy rises up to destroy the Jews no matter where we go or what we change our name to try to fit in.  I suppose that comes along with God changing Jacob's name. 

Thank you Irving Berlin. Your name and your songs certainly are a blessing to America! 

By the way, Berlin donated the song's royalties to the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America.

ABRAM WAS SENT, WE ARE CALLED

Genesis 12:1 -- The Lord had said to Abram, 'Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.

In Hebrew, the name Siloam שִׁלֹחַ in Hebrew, transliterated as Shiloach, means "sent" or "sending forth". This meaning is derived from the Hebrew verb שלח (shalah), which means "to send out" or "to let go."  The Pool of Siloam, a real place in Jerusalem, is named for this meaning, as it was fed by a water source that was sent out.  

In the New Testament, the name Siloam is explicitly linked to Jesus's healing of a blind man at the Pool of Siloam, where the pool is identified as "Sent". This highlights the connection between the name and the idea of something being sent out, whether it's water from a spring or a divine action. 

In Luke 13:4-5, Jesus references the recent collapse of the Tower of Siloam in Jerusalem, which killed eighteen people.  

Luke 13:4-5 -- Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? 5 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”

Genesis 12:1 shows Abraham being "sent." Jesus sent out his apostles.  In Luke 13, Jesus extends Abraham's blessing and covenant to his descendants, emphasizing both physical and spiritual heritage.

The Hebrew for "Life" is Chai חַיִּ

The Hebrew word for life is Chai. The letters in chai (Yod 10 + Chet 8) = 18. Life = 18.

In Luke 13, God uses the death of "the 18" to challenge the common belief that suffering is a direct result of sin. Jesus emphasizes that everyone is susceptible to tragedy and calls for repentance, highlighting the universal need for turning to God.  Luke 13:3 -- I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.

Also in Luke 13, Jesus encounters a woman who has been afflicted with a debilitating illness for 18 years, describing her as a "daughter of Abraham". He heals her on the Sabbath, leading to a confrontation with a synagogue leader who criticizes the timing of the healing. Jesus defends his actions by arguing that the woman, being a daughter of Abraham, should be freed from her affliction, just as one would release an animal for watering on the Sabbath. 

When Jews raise a cup of wine we say "L'Chaim," meaning "TO LIFE." Jesus's promises everlasting life, 18, to those who raise a cup and take communion.  

The bible, all 66 books, is one story. 

A MEDITATION ON LIFE

A Journey of Faith: Reflections on Life's Path Through Scripture

This morning a dear friend sent me a text with the following expression:

"God I thank you for all that you have given me, all that you have taken away from me and all that you have left me. You gave me life, you took away my stone cold heart and you left a path for me to come home."

His message caused me to mediate on the concept of life as a journey through the lens of scripture. This metaphor permeates both the Tanakh (Hebrew scriptures) and the New Testament. Judeo-Christian scripture, the bible, speak to God's presence throughout every stage of our existence. 

Scripture paints a beautiful, continuous picture of our soul’s journey: from our time on earth to life everlasting with God.

The Bible teaches that our souls are created by God and given purpose on this earth. Psalm 139:13-16 describes how God forms us in the womb and knows every day of our lives before one comes to be. 

Our earthly journey is not random; it is guided by God’s wisdom and instruction—His Torah, His Word, His Spirit.

The Beginning and End of Our Journey

As Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 says "There is a time to be born and a time to die," directly acknowledging the boundaries of our earthly pilgrimage. 

Ecclesiastes 12:7: “And the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”

God's Presence Along the Path

I wonder how much of journey is determined by our choices versus the impact of other forces on us. We make plans, but then life happens. The world has a way of changing our plans. Scripture provides us assurances that carry through life's vicissitudes.

Comfort is found in knowing that God walks with us! The Bible repeatedly assures us of His constant presence:

"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?... If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle by the farthest sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast" (Psalm 139:7-10).

To Jacob, He promised, "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go" (Genesis 28:15). To Moses, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Exodus 33:14). And Yeshua himself assured us, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20).

The Shepherd's Guidance

Hebrew letter Lamed (30)

Psalm 23 has become especially meaningful in my reflection. This psalm uses journey imagery to describe life with God as our Shepherd:

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake."

Lamed (ל) is derived from the root meaning "to learn" or "to teach." It's shape, which resembles a shepherd's staff, indicates guidance and direction in learning. The shepherd's staff is also associated with a journey.  

Even in life's darkest valleys, the Shepherd remains: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."

I've come to see Psalm 23 as a microcosm of our entire life journey - from the peaceful beginnings to challenging passages, culminating in the promise: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Beyond Death: The Journey Continues

The Tenach signals that there is a path to redemption.    

Psalm 49:15 – “But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol, for He will receive me.”

Isaiah 25:8 – “He will swallow up death forever; the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces.”

Is it better for death to be a final rest?  The hope that sustains many is that our journey doesn't end at death. The New Testament makes this abundantly clear:

"To live is Christ and to die is gain... I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far" (Philippians 1:21-23).

"We are confident... to be away from the body and at home with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8).

Yeshua promised, "I go to prepare a place for you... I will come back and take you to be with me" (John 14:2-3).

This is the Hope - our hope - The Hope of Israel. Like Rahab's scarlet cord at Jericho, marking her household for salvation amid destruction, we too have a sign of rescue from death's power.

The Choices That Shape Our Path

Throughout Scripture, I see how our choices determine our destination. As Moses told Israel: "I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life" (Deuteronomy 30:19).

Yeshua spoke of two paths: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it" (Matthew 7:13-14).

Conclusion: A Journey With Purpose

As I reflect on these passages, I'm reminded that life isn't meant to be a meaningless wandering. The scriptures speak of life being a purposeful journey with God as our guide. 

The very word “Torah” comes from the Hebrew root meaning instruction or guidance, emphasizing that God’s teachings are meant to direct our steps, not just provide rules.

The mitzvot (commandments) are there to give us "life to the full" described as longer days and a more abundant life -- a purposeful life overflowing with spiritual richness. 

Psalm 16:11 says “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

Proverbs 3:1-2 teaches, “Do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.”

From the beginning (Psalm 139) to the end (Revelation 22:13), He is there - directing, protecting, and ultimately welcoming us home.

The journey has its green pastures and dark valleys, its moments of clarity and confusion. Yet through it all, God's promise remains: "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:8).

This journey continues beyond death into eternity - not as a conclusion but as a transition to a greater reality where, as Revelation 21:4 promises, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain."

Life is a journey and Ecclesiastes 7:2 says “Death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart.”

This is my meditation, my hope, my assurance - that from beginning to end and beyond, the God who formed me walks with me, and will one day welcome me home.

I hope somehow these thoughts are meaningful to you. 

Epilogue:

Whenever I do a meditation. I always refer to the Torah portion for the week, which is invariably relevant. This weeks Parshah is called "Chukat," means "Statute" and it is found in Numbers 19:1-22.1.

In this section, after forty years of journeying through the desert, the people of Israel arrive in the wilderness of Zin. Miriam dies, and the people thirst for water. G‑d tells Moses to speak to a rock and command it to give water. Moses gets angry at the rebellious Israelites and strikes the stone. Water issues forth, but Moses is told by G‑d that neither he nor Aaron will enter the Promised Land.

The Torah never fails.  Adonia called me by my name. 

THE WORLD WITNESSED THE SHIELD OF DAVID

Out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem” (Isaiah 2:3; Micah 4:2). 

Psalm 146.10 -- The Lord will reign forever! Your God, O Zion, to all generations. Hallelujah!"

What the world witnessed in Israel’s so called "12-Day War," and before against Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis is miraculous. The IDF and IAF went into battle with the protection of the shield (Magan) of David. 

In the Tenach, the Hebrew Bible, the Land of Israel and the city of Jerusalem are both referred to as Zion.  Zion is a specific, historically important location — the name refers to both a hill in the city of Jerusalem and to the city itself — but it's also used in a general way to mean "holy place" or "kingdom of heaven." 

Zechariah 2:10 -- Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion, for behold, I come and I will dwell in your midst, declares the Lord.

The phrase "daughter of Zion" is a personification of Jerusalem and its inhabitants, particularly in the Hebrew prophets.

2 Samuel 5:9-10 -- And David lived in the stronghold and called it the city of David. And David built the city all around from the Millo inward. And David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him.

1 Samuel 17:34-37, King David is portrayed as having killed both a lion and a bear that threatened his father's flock. This act of bravery demonstrates David's courage, faith, and reliance on God's strength before the shepherd boy David slayed Goliath, long before his role as king. 

1 Samuel 17:34-37 (ESV) -- But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him. Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.” And David said, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you!”

The Star of David on the flag of Israel symbolizes the protection of Israel. 

Israel's victory will be studied for generations to come by military experts and students.  When one reaches the inevitable conclusion that God was in the battle with Israel, what does one do with that understanding?  Therein exists the dilemma for those who don't have faith. 

This dilemma is not just intellectual but existential: it challenges individuals to confront their assumptions about history, meaning, and the possibility (or impossibility) of the divine acting in the world. For people of faith, the conclusion inspires worship and further trust; for skeptics, it may prompt critical inquiry or a search for alternative explanations. The divide itself is a recurring theme in the philosophy of history and in how societies remember and teach about pivotal events. 

Do you have eyes to see? What do you see? Do you have ears to hear? What do you hear?

שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵינוּ יְהוָה אֶחָֽד

Sh'ma Yisra'eil Adonai Eloheinu Adonai echad. Hear, Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.

Epilogue:

Speaking of a Jerusalem/Zion, a "city on a hill," consider the vision of America. 

TODAY'S PARALLELS TO ANCIENT PERSIA

A ~400 Year Old Biblical Story and Parallels to Today

The Megillah (scroll) of Esther tells the story of how Queen Esther of Persia, a woman who was hiding her Jewish identity, risks her life to prevent the genocide of her people by a wicked man named Haman. Haman plans to kill Esther's cousin Mordechai and all the Jews, because he refuses to bow down to him or anyone but God. 

Convinced by her cousin Mordechai, Queen Esther  reveals her Jewish identity and exposes Haman's wicked plans to king Achashverosh. (That is the king's Hebrew name.  In the Septuagint Greek translation of the Book of Esther the king is referred to ArtaXerxes.)  

The name Artaxerxes, of Persian origin, generally means "ruler of heroes" or "great king". It's composed of the elements arta, meaning truth or righteousness, and xerxes, meaning ruler or king. 

Queen Esther's Hebrew name was Hadassah (הֲדַסָּה), which means “myrtle”. When she became queen of Persia, she was given the name Esther (אֶסְתֵּר), likely derived from the Hebrew root s-t-r (סתר), meaning “to hide or conceal,” reflecting her hidden Jewish identity. 

Truth Is Revealed

After Esther reveals Haman's wicked plans, the king orders Haman and his 10 sons to be hung on the gallows (a tree) that Haman had prepared to kill Mordechai on. Queen Esther's cousin Mordechai is elevated to royal status. 

A Royal Decree to Fight Back

Using the Signet Ring given to him by the king, Mordechai issues a royal decree that is dispatched to all 127 provinces of Achashverosh's empire. Jews are given license to defend themselves. They are to rise up against those plotting to kill them. They do, and they kill Haman’s soldiers. The evil plans of Haman are reversed. The Jews survive. In witness to the power of God of Isreal, many Persians become believers and convert to Judaism, so it says. 

This story is why Jews celebrate the holiday of Purim. The word “Purim” means “lots,” referring to the lots (dice-like objects) that Haman cast to choose the date for his planned genocide of the Jews. Those lots fell on the date the 13th of Adar. Purim is celebrated on the 14th of Adar, the day after the battle.

The Law of the Pursuer 

The decree issued by Mordechai reflects the ethical imperative: to take action to prevent harm, which is a broader principle underlying the Halachic law of Din Rodef, the "law of the pursuer."

Din rodef (“law of the pursuer”) is a principle in Jewish law that allows, or even obligates, a person to stop someone actively trying to kill another—even by killing the attacker if necessary, so long as lesser means would not be effective. The law provides for self-defense, even the obligation to kill someone before they kill you or another. But it does not justify revenge! 

Consider the Parallels to Today

• The battle takes place in ancient Persia, which is modern day Iran.
• Haman’s name is spelled almost exactly like Hamas, which means violence.  
• The Jews fight back to prevent their own destruction. 
• The tables are turned on Haman and his evil guards. They're the ones who are killed. The covenant Children of Israel survive destruction.

One More "Coincidence"

There is one more date that has an interesting correlation to today's events with Israel's war with Iran. That is the date that Mordechai issued his royal decree. That date is the 23rd of Sivan. This date falls on the 19th of June this year 2025 (5785). The 23rd of Sivan is this Thursday, which also happens to be the date of this year's Jewish Federation of Dutchess County's Gala. 

Meanwhile, the world is anxious to know the fate of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is probably hid up in one the bunkers Iran built to strike Israel from. Israel also anxiously anticipates the decree of President Trump concerning the use of America's bunker buster bombs. 

Conclusion 

My conclusion would sound like a prediction, if I shared it.  But you don't have to be prophet to recognize the amazing parallels. There are a lot of great miracles are happening there!  Nes Gadol Hey Shin. But that is another holday, Hanukkah. 

Notably, in Books of Maccabees, after the victorious battle against the Seleucids, Judah Maccabee declares for the ages, to "Remember the 13th of Adar." To this day that Fast of Esther is remembrance of that. 

The Ayatollah will not unconditionally surrender. Especially if he is dead and his regime has been overthrown! But the Persians who take back their country may.

The irony in all of this is that it is Israel that is freeing both the Palestinians from the evil of Hamas and the Persian peoples from the terrible Iranian regime. The rise of Persian and the end of Hamas (violence) is the greatest reset in this century.

"Rising Lions" like her are the future!

History in today is prophecy of tomorrow.  

Epilogue:

Some interpretations of the war prophesied in war in Ezekiel 38 and 38 say that it will not begin until israel is secure and prosperous in the land. After the defeat of Iran, this will be the first time in the history of modern israel that this may happen.

Netanyahu’s finest hour: Facing Iran alone, if he must

"Rising Lions" like her are the future!

BIG IS IN THE MAKING

Can you sense it? Doesn't it feel like something big is in the making in the Middle East? 

We have seen amazing events. Nobody was predicting Israel to achieve the results it has in the war with Iran, let alone how it is crushing Hezbollah and Hamas. 

On the one hand, Israel has total air superiority over Iran and is rapidly destroying high value targets and eliminating the command structure. Iranian missile launches have declined dramatically. Israel appears on the road to victory!! 

Chances are high that the USA will apply "Bunker Buster Bombs" to obliterate Iran's nuclear program sites. All that is great. 

On the other hand, none of what's started is settled. There is no peace. Israelis have not moved back to the regions and homes the evacuated after October 7th. 

COULD THE WAR TAKE A "BIG" TURN?  

President Trump cuts his G7 trip short to head home and orders the "Situation Room" to be prepared. Reliable sources say the US military is joining attacks on Iran in matter of hours, not days! There are unconfirmed reports that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed. Couple this with news that China and Russia strongly advised it's citizens in Israel to leave. A cargo flight from China was diverted toward Iran. Turkey is too quite.

LOGICAL REASONS FOR CONCERN:

1. Russia and China must realize that they can't stop what's happening in Iran by merely "supplying" the regime. Not at this point! 

2. Why would Russia and China evacuate citizens from Israel...at this point?

3. Diplomatic efforts don't seem likely to stop the mission that Israel is on. 

Russia and China have mutual economic interests in Iran. They have strong ties to the current regime. Therefore, enemies of the Iranian Revolutionary regime that may overthrow the regime are very apt to have unfavorable attitudes towards Russia and China moving forward if they gain control. 

A major geopolitical shift by Iran to the West, particularly the USA, and away from Russia and China would be very unsettling. That would be a huge reset. 

All of this begs two questions:

1. Are Russia and China going to allow the reset to happen? 

2. What are Russia and China planning?

Trump is in a dance with Russia and China, and he knows way more than he can tell the public.Watch his actions. Things are accelerating.

I wonder if/when Trump will address the American people in a more formal way?

Conclusion

Something big is in the making. The question many have is whether it is biblical. What do you think? 

Proverbs 20:12 -- Ears that hear and eyes that see— the Lord has made them both.

YOU HAVE A PROBLEM

This blog post is meant for all those complaining about the parade being the selfish act of "King" celebrating his birthday. You have a problem -- Your hatred of Trump has surpassed your love of America.  Let's look at the truth:

1. On June 14, 1775, the sword and shield of our Republic were forged when the Second Continental Congress voted to establish what would later become the United States Army. The 250th Anniversary is June 14th!!!!

2. June 14, 1777, marks the resolution that officially adopted the American flag. June 14th is Flag Day!!!

The parade is NOT a 4th of July Celebration. The parade is not a solom Memorial day event. And the parade is certainty NOT President Trump’s birthday party. The FACT that the COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF's birthday happens to coincide with the date that is the REAL AND VALID DATE for the parade is a wonderful "coincidence." 

The fact that our President jumped up after being shot to instinctively FIGHT for the Nation is another fact that is lost on those with Trump Derangement Sydrome, which is NOT lost on those who understand what this parade is about!!

A schmuck fails to appreciate that the UNITED STATES MILITARY IS LIKE A FAMILY. People who serve our Nation and keep us free, often come from multi-generational families of service. Some can proudly trace their roots of service to a relative(s) who served in a past war. Military families DESERVE A PARADE SO OUR COUNTRY CAN SALUTE THEIR SACRAFICES! 

A military parade is a form of tribute that honors and celebrates the contributions of a nation's armed forces. It serves as a public display of national pride, unity, and remembrance, showcasing the military's strength and discipline, while also recognizing the service and sacrifice of its members. 

• Public Display of Gratitude - Parades offer a visible way for the public to express gratitude and appreciation for the military's dedication and service to the country. 
• Highlighting Military History and Achievements - Parades often showcase different eras of military history, highlighting key events and achievements, and honoring the sacrifices made by past and present service members. 
• Inspiring Future Generations - By showcasing the military's capabilities and values, parades can inspire young people to consider a career in the armed forces or to embody the spirit of service, resilience, and leadership. 
• Symbol of National Unity - Military parades can bring people together, fostering a sense of national identity and pride in the military's role in defending the nation. 
• Demonstration of Strength and Readiness - Parades can be a visible display of the military's preparedness and capabilities, potentially acting as a deterrent to potential adversaries. 
• Ceremonial Purpose - Beyond the symbolic aspects, military parades also serve as ceremonial events, often marking significant anniversaries or events in a nation's history. 
• Strengthening the Bond Between Military and Public - Parades help reinforce the connection between the armed forces and the civilian population, demonstrating that the military is an integral part of society. 

A parade that remembers each of our wars and the 250 year HISTORY of the United States Army was altogether suitable. It would have been wrong to fail to mark this major point in our Nation's history. We will do it again on the 4th of July in 2026 when we mark the 250th Anniversary of our Declaration of Independence. 

As for the cost, I concede that the optics are not good, but the parade was funded largely by the America250 Foundation with sponsorships from major corporations including Oracle, Lockheed Martin, Palantir, and others.

Whatever the real net cost is to taxpayers, it can be forgiven. In the grand scheme it will not make a difference. Putting so much history and military equipment on display for this one time, once in a 250 year event is a great decision.  Plus, the money does go into the economy of the Washington DC area and American workers. 

Look at the cost this way, it's not like the $20 million the USA spent to put on a Sesame Street program in Iraq. Doge cut that.

Additional Dose of the Truth:

Democrats lied to all of us because hating Trump meant more than the sons and daughters of the US Army that sacrificed their lives for their freedom.  The Biden Administration planned the parade to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the US Army.  

The leftist Washington Post confirmed that the US Army filed for a parade permit in the Summer 2024 for the DC parade. Plans had been in process for about 2 1/2 years when the permit was filed. Official records of planning and coordination with the Biden Administration date to February 2024. It was NEVER a celebration of Trump's birthday.

"Lemmings...all of you...lemmings!"

Conclusion 

With all that is going on with wars and rumors of wars, for all the reasons listed above this 250th Anniversary Day Parade could not have come at a more perfect time!

THE HATEFUL AND PARTISAN REACTION TO THIS EVENT IS EXACTLY WHAT THE FIRST COMMANDER OF THE ARMY, GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON, WARNED ALL OF US ABOUT IN HIS FAREWELL ADDRESS TO THE PEOPLE!

To those who mock the POTUS as a "king," I say, try this on for size -- "All Hail King AutoPen!" Imagine throwing a "No Kings" protest after your party refused to hold a primary and coronated Kamala without a single vote.

Epilogue:

Notice the Star (Shield) of David above the Eagle on the Army Seal pictured above. The artist who engraved the first die of the Great Seal in 1782 chose a hexagram (six-pointed star) arrangement for the 13 stars. However, the reason for this choice is unknown. Personally, I prefer to accept "the myth." Why a Hexagon design -- consider what I blogged. 

Also consider George Washington's words from his famous Farewell Address. (Penned by Alexander Hamilton. 

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to
political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiarstructure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.