National Anthem Project

The Masonic Service Association has been designated a "National Supporting Organization" for the National Anthem Project. This means MSA will be the point of contact on behalf of Freemasons in the United States. The National Anthem Project felt that with so many close connections between the Flag, the National Anthem, and Freemasonry we should be involved and be part of the effort to revitalize the Spirit of America through our National Anthem - The Star Spangled Banner.

The following information was provided by the National Association for Music Education (MENC):

The National Anthem Project

One of the most significant moments in our nation's history happened during the War of 1812 and is told through the poem of one man, Francis Scott Key. On the night of September 13, 1814, Key watched as our country was attacked by the British Navy at Fort McHenry. After watching the rockets' red glare and bombs bursting in air, Key was expecting to find Baltimore burned by the British but was stunned to see the American flag raised at sunrise as the British ships retreated. So inspiring was this sight that Key began to pen what was to become our National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner."

Today, many Americans are unaware of this legacy. In fact, two out of three Americans don't know all of the words to "The Star Spangled Banner" and many more aren't sure which song is our national anthem. After years of budget cuts to school music programs, American patriotism is becoming silenced as students lose access to historical lessons and tales of our history through the teaching of patriotic songs.

The National Association for Music Education (MENC) is launching the National Anthem Project to renew national awareness of American traditions and promote the significance and history of the anthem. We are going to re-teach America to sing the National Anthem and take pride in all for which our country stands.

Many of America's leading organizations and well-known brands are working with us for this extensive consumer education campaign, including A&E Networks and the History Channel, The Disney Company, the American History Museum at the Smithsonian Institution, and the American Sportscasters Association, among others.

For more information please go to www.thenationalanthemproject.org