Johnny Cash, proud American and Air Force veteran, honored the American flag in his song “Ragged Old Flag” from his 1974 album of the same name. The song, delivered in a spoken-word style, expresses deep respect and admiration for the flag and its history.
In the song, a narrator comments on the ragged state of a courthouse flag. Another man responds, explaining the flag’s significance and the trials it has endured, from crossing the Delaware with Washington to being burned by protesters. Notable lyrics include: “So we raise her up every morning, and we bring her down slow every night. We don’t let her touch the ground, and we fold her up right. On second thought, I do like to brag. Cause I’m mighty proud of that Ragged Old Flag.”
Cash wrote “Ragged Old Flag” to revive patriotism in the wake of the Watergate scandal. He aimed to reconnect Americans with their national pride. The album also features songs addressing significant issues, like “Don’t Go Near the Water,” which discusses environmental concerns.
“Ragged Old Flag” continues to resonate. Fox Sports featured it in a patriotic clip before Super Bowl LI in 2017, and it has been used in subsequent Super Bowls. Cash’s meaningful tribute to the American flag remains powerful and relevant.
