THIS DAY IN HISTORY
Today, on March 3—National Anthem Day
THIS DAY IN HISTORY
Celebrating National Anthem Day
Today, on March 3—National Anthem Day—we commemorate when Congress and President Herbert Hoover officially designated “The Star-Spangled Banner” as America’s national anthem in 1931. Though the song’s roots stretch back over a century earlier, its message of resilience, faith, and Divine protection remains powerfully relevant.
During the War of 1812, British forces had burned the Capitol and White House before advancing on Baltimore in September 1814. On the night of September 13, they bombarded Fort McHenry in a fierce assault.
Francis Scott Key, a committed attorney, was detained aboard a British ship while negotiating a prisoner’s release. Through the “rockets’ red glare” and “bombs bursting in air,” Key anxiously watched, fearing the fort—and the young nation—might fall.
At dawn, he saw the American flag still waving triumphantly over the unconquered fort. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Key penned the poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” later set to music and known as “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Its stirring fourth verse declares: “Blest with vict’ry and peace may the heav’n rescued land / Praise the power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation! … And this be our motto – ‘In God is our trust.’” These words reflect Key’s deep faith and remind us of God’s Providential hand in preserving America.
As we honor this day, let’s remember the courage of those who defended liberty and the timeless truth that our nation’s strength comes from trusting in God. May the Star-Spangled Banner continue to wave “o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.”
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