1. The Declaration of Independence

It was a bold and extremely risky endeavor. Representatives in the American colonies, who were still under British rule, were essentially committing an act of treason. Those men gathered in Philadelphia, our Founding Fathers, risked their lives, families and possessions when they formed that unified agreement to declare independence from Great Britain, the superpower at that time.

2. Unity after 9/11      

Despite the devastating attacks on September 11, 2001 Americans came together. There were lawmakers from either side who stood with one another and sang “God Bless America” from the Capitol steps. The Stars and Stripes were displayed over bridges, on buildings and on people’s properties. A united people stood side by side and showed the world that nothing could break our spirit.

3. 1913 Reunion at Gettysburg

The event marked the 50th Anniversary of the largest battle ever fought on American soil. It was also the largest gathering of Civil War veterans as both Union and Confederate veterans attended. There were ceremonies, speeches and shaking of hands over a stone wall that symbolized reconciliation and unity. Men who fought so bitterly, a half-century earlier, put their differences aside and united.

4. 1980 Miracle on Ice

There was a question that was shouted over the airwaves some 45 years ago when the United States hockey team did the impossible against the Soviet team. That question was “Do you believe in miracles?”

Well do you?

5. The Moon landing of 1969

More than just an incredible technological and scientific achievement, the Apollo 11 mission showed the world that America was first in the Space Race. It also reaffirmed the position of the U.S. as world leader and confirmed the late JFK’s goal which was to land America on the Moon before the end of that decade.

6. Victory over Japan Day

That day in mid August 1945 marked the official surrender of Japan after years of conflict during WWII. Americans took to the streets as spontaneous celebrations occurred. There was renewed unity, joy and a togetherness. In the coming years America experienced great social and economic prosperity.

7. The 1992 Summer Olympics Dream Team

The greatest basketball players in the history of the sport represented America. On and off the court they were a media sensation as the world watched America’s Dream Team dominate those Olympics.

8. FDR’s Inaugural Address in 1933

At a time when all seemed hopeless. When workers could not find jobs (unemployment was at 25%) and when most families did not have enough income to purchase food. Our new President made the following statement during his inaugural address that set the course for a new chapter in our history…

“So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is…fear itself— nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life, a leadership of frankness and of vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory.”

9. Inauguration of the Bartholdi Statue, Harbor of New York in 1886

She is our beacon of hope, our symbol of compassion toward all humanity and the “New Colossus.” As President Grover Cleveland presided over the dedication ceremony in late October 1886 Americans proudly gathered to view “Liberty Enlightening The World.”

10. The Bicentennial of the United States in 1976

It was a year-long celebration of our country’s 200th birthday that actually started in April of 1975. Community, National Pride, and Patriotism were the buzz words of the day.

Let’s start saying those words again.

11. Armistice – November 11, 1918

That moment in history that marked the end of The Great War as a new time of peace unified Americans who celebrated in cities across the nation.

12. The Louisiana Purchase

Was a momentous acquisition of 828,000 square miles of land during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency which doubled the size of our nation.

13. America’s response during COVID 19

They were healthcare professionals, grocery store employees, first responders, teachers and military. Americans who looked straight into the eyes of uncertainty and who put themselves in harm’s way so that others could get the services, the food and medical treatment that they needed.

Time and time again, throughout history, Americans have rose to the occasion. We have led the world, overcame challenges and sought common ground despite differences. “We The People” means exactly that… “We” not “Me” or “Them” but US.

In the words of George Washington: “The name of AMERICAN, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of Patriotism…”.

It’s time, right now, to bring that back. Our country… yours and mine – Needs you!

Too many Americans sacrificed way too much so that we could have what we have today. Abraham Lincoln said: “Persuade your neighbor to compromise whenever you can.”

Thomas Paine said “We have it in our power to begin the whole world over again.” And that was over 250 years ago. If we could change the world 250 years ago (which we did) we can surely find a way to move forward today.

Let’s move forward.

God Bless America!