Sacred Honor Poem by John F. McCullagh

Hands trembled but their hearts did not
On that Independence Day.

When they signed the Declaration
Many signed their lives away.

Some signers died in prison
Or sank in poverty.

Several closed their eyes on life
Before final victory.

One man, Clark, of New Jersey
Deserves a special nod.

He suffered much for Liberty
At the hands of Howe and God.

His two sons were imprisoned,
Floating on the New York tide.

Deprived of food and water
What could they do but die.

The British were true devils
And said they'd be set free.

If their father would come out for King
And recant Libery.

If he betrayed his sacred trust
He might well save his sons.

If he recanted they'd be free-
What would you have done?

His answer echoes down through time,
Their proposal he denied.

Our document was signed in blood and thrones must be defied.