Westy’s & Storytelling - Part 3
It is hard to believe that the Fourth of July week is just around the corner! The 4th of July is one of our favorite holidays. No one does 4th of July better than Highland Falls. It is truly hometown USA with bed races, canoe races, Firecracker 5K, parade down Main Street and of course Roe Park for Fireworks. All of the fun, however, is underscored by one thing: patriotism
The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, stands as one of the most iconic and meaningful holidays in the United States. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when 13 American colonies broke free from British rule and began the journey of forming a new nation founded on liberty and democracy. But beyond parades, BBQs, and fireworks, the day serves as a powerful reminder of what it means to be an American. We come together to celebrate more than just a date in history – we celebrate an idea. That idea is freedom. It is the belief that people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and beliefs can stand together as one nation, united under the values of liberty, opportunity, and justice. Parades, BBQs, and fireworks – they are all part of the tradition. But sometimes, it is a song or a single moment that captures the heart of patriotism better than anything else.
For the West Point Class of 1991, that song is Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA.” Released in 1984, Greenwood’s iconic anthem has become a soundtrack for national pride. As “new cadets” standing in formation during Cadet Basic Training in the summer heat of 1987, you would be required by the upperclassmen to “sound off” with the required “knowledge” of the day. “Schofield’s Definition of Discipline”, “The Corps”, and “The Days” are all examples of knowledge that new cadets have memorized throughout the history of West Point. But that particular summer “God Bless the USA” became “unofficial” knowledge for the Class of 1991. Every day during formation, you could always hear at least one new cadet singing “I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free”. Usually, you could hear an entire squad, or even platoon singing the song. The song, with its powerful chorus, quickly became our Class’s unofficial theme song.
One of the most unforgettable performances of “God Bless the USA” happened at the 1990 Army Navy football game – a tradition that goes back more than a century. For those who are not familiar, the Army-Navy game isn’t just college football. It’s a celebration of service, sacrifice, and the bond between those who commit their lives to protecting the country. The rivalry is fierce, but the respect is even stronger.
That year, our Firstie (or senior) year, Lee Greenwood took the stage and sang his most beloved song live, surrounded by cadets, midshipmen, veterans, and active-duty service members. As he sang, the crowd stood shoulder-to-shoulder, many with their hands over their hearts or tears in their eyes. It was one of those rare moments where everyone in the stadium – regardless of team loyalty – was united in something much bigger: love of country.
In 2023, Lee Greenwood was invited back to the Army Navy game for a repeat performance, and he did not disappoint! Those two performances felt like the perfect intersection between patriotism and tradition. It reminded us that, whether it is Independence Day or the Army-Navy game, America is defined by the people who believe in it. The ones who serve. The ones who give. The ones who sing along, even when it is hard to hit the notes😊.
At Westy’s we are extremely blessed to be able to share a piece of Lee Greenwood’s history. Hanging on the wall will be a Lee Greenwood autographed red, white, and blue guitar that was graciously donated by our dear friends, Anthony and Kristen Noto. Additionally, we will proudly display a wooden American flag that was hand-made and donated by another good friend and patriot, Billy Mac. At Westy’s patriotism is not about politics or perfection – it is about pride. Pride in the people, the values, and the freedom we share.
We may not all cheer for the same team, but when Lee Greenwood sings, we all know the words. And that’s worth standing for. We look forward to standing with you at Westy’s!
Mark and Holly West
Owners, Westy's
