On February 19, 2007, while on patrol in Iraq, a massive IED struck the truck that SSG Shilo Harris was traveling in resulting in devastating injuries, with burns to over 40% of his body.  During the months of painful surgeries that followed, Shilo and his loyal wife, Kathreyn, found a true calling — to help wounded warriors through the agonizing and traumatic processes of recovery, rehabilitation and learning to face a life that will never be the same. Shilo, once sufficiently healed, began a career as a motivational speaker, giving hope to others similarly wounded, while Kathreyn, taking up the cause as well, began working for the Army Wounded Warrior Project. Shilo and Kathreyn have dedicated their lives to giving back.

In honor of Shilo, Greenwood performs “God Bless the U.S.A.” in this moving holiday-themed tribute to our wounded veterans. 2013 marks the 30th Anniversary of Greenwood’s self-penned patriotic anthem.  The impact this song continues to have is immeasurable. It has been a source of pride and patriotism at naturalization ceremonies, public celebrations, and military events, and a source of comfort and solace to those whose family members have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

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Greenwood explained, “I wrote ‘God Bless the USA’ about the love I have for this country and the struggle we have gone through to remain free. Our country was founded on the principle that it welcomes people of all cultures and gives them the same rights we have as citizens. However, I feel compelled to echo the faith of our forefathers who all believed in God and a respect of a higher authority. Personally, denying the children of [the Brooklyn school] to sing ‘God Bless the USA,’ offends me as a Christian. My song is about hope, faith, spirit and pride. How could that be wrong on any level?”

The lyrics of the song were deemed “inappropriate” for five-year-olds, who would be participating in the school event. While New York City Chancellor Dennis Walcott supports the principal’s decision to remove the song from the graduation program, parents and teachers take the opposite position and have expressed their anger toward the principal’s decision.

At the risk of opening a can of worms, we would love to hear what our readers think of this story. The school at issue is located near New York City, a place that was directly and drastically impacted by the events of 9/11. Do you think this song has inappropriate lyrics and/or connotation? Do you think the principal has a leg to stand on with her decision, or do you side with the teachers and parents, whom found solitude in Greenwood’s song after the 9/11 tragedy? Please share your thoughts with the staff and readers of Keepin’ It Country.

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