I Want to Thank You by Susan Hammond

Since then, I have been able to sing it at Camp Pendleton (April 2000), "Stand Down," an event for homeless veterans (July 2001, 2002, San Diego, CA.), the Roger Hedgecock Show, AM 600, KOGO (August 2001), for retired U.S. Marine aviators in San Diego (May 2002), Duffy and Company, 99.5 FM, KKLA (September 2002), and at the 20th Anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. (November 6, 2002).

The simple words, "Thank You," go a long way in making others feel valued, appreciated. Those words are significant to all veterans, but especially so to Vietnam vets.

"Standin' Tall" starts reverently, quietly, and then moves into a strong beat. The song honors those whose names are engraved upon the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C., and those who served beside them. More than 58,000 names are there - each one a husband, a son, a father, or a friend. It is another song written with the express hope that a significant healing can yet occur in the hearts and minds of those who still suffer from the experience of that war, either from their physical wounds, and/or from the toll exacted on their spirit. This song was debuted live on Roger Hedgecock (August 10, 2001) and was also aired in May 2002 on Duffy and Company, 99.5 FM, KKLA.

"I Am An American" is dedicated to the Pearl Harbor survivors, and was debuted on their 60th anniversary at Veterans Memorial Center in Balboa Park, San Diego, CA. I began writing this song on Easter Sunday of 2001, but wasn't able to finish it until after the attack of September 11th. Then, all of the pieces came together. Pearl Harbor and NYC share a common wound -a surprise attack on American soil, with similar casualties. One line, in particular, from President Bush's message at the National Cathedral on September 14th, just leapt at me as I was listening, and became the inspiration for the bridge section of my song. He said, "The commitment of our fathers is now the calling of our time." The events of the past and recent past were linked together, and they serve as a compass to direct our present action for our future hope.

My friends and fellow singers, Kirk Watilo, Cindy Carlisle, and Ken Larsen, are my background voices, along with me, for "Standin' Tall." Garry Lavender did all the playing, arranging and sequencing on both that song and on "I Want to Thank You." *Bob Gunn, wrote the music for "I Am An American," and also played, arranged and sequenced it, as well as sang with me. Thanks guys! You're the best!

A little bit about me: I am married and I have two children. In addition to songwriting, and singing with the Praise Symphony Orchestra since 1985, I am a graduate student in Church Leadership at Vanguard University, Costa Mesa, CA., and am currently working on my thesis! OY VEY! As you will hear, each of my songs makes reference to God. I believe that each person, and every nation, who puts their hope and trust in Him will not be disappointed. A nation that humbly falls to its knees in prayer will be able to stand to its feet in strength. He will honor those who honor Him. May God bless America! Soli Deo Gloria!Copyright 2002-2005 Susan Hammond

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