Resolute Endurance

Has the mighty citadel now crumbled,
shaken by contention, perplexity and doubt,
personalities over principles stumbled,
foundations shaken, imperiled, given out?

Through fire bomb and shout and rifle shot,
riotous wrecking, hatefully employed;
to be undignified is not her lot;
stately neoclassic dome be not destroyed.

Battles that obtained for her the right to stand,
more than the marble structure that we see,
the steadfastness that earned by will and hand,
the body, citizens combined uphold her dignity.

Our citadel, virtual as well as literal,
who, indivisible, their resolute path have trod,
trust in His power and their dauntlessness,
shall hold their own while Nation under God.