Beat the drumbeats slowly,
The dead are marching by,
Remove your hat in reverence,
And pause to have a cry.

Their numbers are extensive,
A nation made of men
Who've given their last measure,
And now they march again.

They fought in battles of the past,
Defending right and truth -
Behold the fathers and the sons
Who still are in their youth.

Their victories are forgotten,
Their wounds we cannot see,
Their agony has disappeared
Into eternity.

Shall they have given ALL in vain,
Protecting freedom's cause,
Defending man-made treaties,
Fighting for good laws?

What say you, fellow citizens,
Can you not hear their plea?
Then listen with your heart and soul,
They're warning you and me

To keep a vigil night and day
Throughout our country wide,
And lay a firm foundation
Across the countryside.

Relay the message to the world
That we will fight once more,
To keep our nation free from powers
That come upon our shore.

Our arms are always open
To grant a place for all
Who cherish our own freedom,
And heed our nation's call.

But tyrants and oppressors
Who'd take away our rights,
Are never ever welcome,
They cause too many fights.

Behold, the cry of patriots
Who march against the foe,
In many battles of the past,
Great courage they did show.

Step forth and now be numbered,
And join the ranks and sing,
Be brave in your convictions,
Be bold, let freedom ring.

Let every loyal citizen
Declare allegiance to
Our nation and its banner,
That's flying in the blue.

Make now this proclamation,
And join the marching band
Of patriots who've given all,
Protecting this great land.

May God Bless America

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