Arrias: “Got home about an hour ago, have now unpacked, and fed the puppy! Yesterday was a wake and funeral for CDR Effie Petrie, in Marietta, Ga. Drove home this morning, crossed the Saluda just west of Colombia - just before it turns and runs right into Columbia… Early morning, thick mist rising of the river… really wish I had a camera with me…”


July 4th, 2025


The muddy river slides quietly along,

A golden light filters through the trees,

A thick mist rises from the dark brown,

The air is still, not a hint of breeze.


Dawn comes to the Saluda,

She turns east and runs out of sight,

Independence Day in South Carolina,

Lit by a cheery light.


And a cheery light across this amazing land,

And to the millions who worked to make her great,

The millions who loved her more than life itself,

For a moment stop and celebrate.


Raise a toast to them all,

A Cheer For Each, Hurrah!

But especially for those 56,

On that day in Philadelphia…


Thank God I am an American,

Thank God the Founders had their sway,

Thank God for all who sacrificed,

Thank God for Independence Day.