Widower Sam Vigil spoke on the third night of the Republican National Convention on August 26, 2020.
Transcript
Standing guard over Baltimore Harbor is the remains of an earthen star, a relic of time passed. It recalls a time when the spirit of Liberty stirred in men of renown, who stood in the gap against the most powerful force in the world. 27 hours, 1000 men, low on ammunition, firing scrap metal. The battle raged, insurmountable odds, a darkness fell upon this new nation. In the midst of the fight, the heroes of Fort McHenry were unmoved. The light of dawn overcame the darkness, the gallon flag hoisted above Fort McHenry, torn and battered stood, victoriously observing a dejected enemy slowly retreating into the rising sun, inspiring the anthem of our nation. The spirit of liberty, not to be denied, the earthen star, Fort McHenry. A reminder of those brave patriots who having done all, stood and prevailed. It is why we stand today honoring past, present and future generations of freedom loving Americans when we hear the Anthem, and raise the Star-Spangled Banner.
