21 Gun Salute
Tradition set the twenty-one shots,
The number of states when set.
Superstitions, peaceful welcomes,
Becomes our honored tradition.
Twenty one guns, cannons armed,
Ready to fire honors, upon orders given.
Twenty-one gun salute, protocol,
Heads of states be honored.
Honor given beginning diplomacy,
Respect paid, beginning negotiation.
Twenty-one gun salute on most navy ships,
Washington honored on President’s Day.
Twenty-one hails the Commander in Chief,
President of these United States.
Tradition of old; let us reflect,
Honor paid with twenty-one rounds.
Cannons; Ready, Aim, . . . Fire.
