That which distinguishes this day from all others is that then both orators and artillerymen shoot blank cartridges. – John Burroughs, Journal

This, then, is the state of the union: free and restless, growing and full of hope. So it was in the beginning. So it shall always be, while God is willing, and we are strong enough to keep the faith. – Lyndon B. Johnson

My patriotic heart beats red, white, and blue. – Author Unknown

Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed – else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die. – Dwight D. Eisenhower