The Benton Dispatch

Andy Higginbotham and parents

Article written by Andy for the SAR Essay contest which won him Third in the nation for his division which was scouting. When you read it you sure stop and think about today’s world.

Why We Should Read Washington’s Farewell Address

By Andy Higginbotham

“Though in reviewing the incidents of my administration I am unconscious of intentional error. I am nevertheless sensible of my defects not to think it probable that I may have committed many errors.’ This quotation from George Washington’s Farewell address is perhaps on of the most honest things said by a politician since the founding of our country, and one of the many reasons Washington’s Farewell Address is a document that every American should be familiar with: one that should be used as a reminder of what it is to be American – of what we must protect.

In his address (which is actually believed to have been written in large part by Alexander #1) Washington touches on many of the most important attitudes and behaviors that citizens of a free republic such as the United States should have, most notably; true patriotism; adherence to all laws; avoidance of partisan politics; lack of habitual hatred or fondness towards other nations; respect for the importance or religion and morality in government and all other aspects of life. Sadly, our country has slipped away from most of the advice and cautions contained in his address.

One of his major themes (and also one of his most strongly held positions throughout his life) was the importance of avoiding any sort of division within the country. Immediately after announcing his intention to decline a third term as president he began with the importance of unity, saying that “… it occurs as a matter or serious concern that any ground should have been furnished for characterizing parties by geographical discriminations – Northern and Southern, Atlantic and Western whence designing men may endeavor to excite a belief that there is a real difference of local interests and views.” #2.Later in the address he returns to the subject of party, saying all divisions should be avoided at all costs. He correctly believed that they would “… distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. “However, he recognized that the spirit of party was a “fire not to be quenched” #3 and so counseled that it be used as a check on government and to keep alive the spirit of liberty, as it could be useful in that regard within limits.

While he advocated a strong government that was not “to feeble to withstand the enterprises of faction” #4 and was adamant that all citizens must obey the laws of the union to avoid falling into anarchy, Washington also cautioned those entrusted with the administration of the country to keep within their constitutional spheres, and to avoid encroaching upon other departments – stating however, that should the people feel that the distribution or modification of the powers was wrong, they should by all means correct it in the manner proscribed by the constitution; not by “usurpation”. Sadly, this is how most of the major changes in government policy of the 20^th century have occurred. Washington correctly realized that “this the customary weapon by which free governments are destroyed.” #5

In essence his farewell address is a call from Washington to the citizens of the United States to be vigilant – to be always on guard against the forces poised to tear the country apart. Regretfully, modern America has not heard the call.

1. Documents of American History 6th Edition PG 169

2. George Washington’s Farewell Address, paragraph 11

3. Ibid par. 17

4. Ibid par. 13

5. Ibid par. 18

Bibliography

Carson, Clarence B., Basic American Government. American Textbook Committee, Alabama

Commager, Henry Steele (ed), Documents of American History 6^th Edition, Appleton-Century-Crofts, New York 1958.

Congratulations

United States Armed Forces Certificate

Compatriot John Sheets of the David Benton Chapter was awarded the United States Armed Forces Veterans Certificate and Medal. It is awarded for outstanding service rendered to United States Armed Forces Veterans. He was nominated by Garry Eckard and Jim Arnold.

New State Appointment

Compatriot James Jackson Jr. of the David Benton Chapter was appointed to the Indiana Society Sons of the American Revolution Director of the Flag Certificate Program. Encourages patriotic respect for the flag of the United States. Promotes Flag Day Programs for the week ending June 14^th of each year. Encourage chapter members to observe locations in their areas for individuals or businesses that fly the American Flag in a patriotic manner. When they are noted the chapter can present the Flag Certificate for a JOB WELL done.

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