A very happy birthday to Sheriff Joe Arpaio, who shares his special day with Donald Trump and our flag.

I sent Mr. Trump a copy of my poem, “The Flag,” and now here it is for Sheriff Joe:

Fly me high and fly me proud, far above the silent crowd.

Remind all what I represent, and when needed, I proudly went.

As a checkered flag I won the race, knowing how hard I set the pace. As a folded flag it’s a final tribute, for years of service in a military suit.

As a color guard in a military parade, as a pennant for a victory made. As a guidon for the cavalry, as a banner for a country free.

As a Jolly Roger I roamed the sea, as yellow I told of infectious disease. As inverted I told of distress and trouble, as semaphore I waved them double.

To signal and warn or communicate, to our enemies who are filled with hate. The people who raised me overhead, will fight until the last one’s dead.

I strike no color of retreat, nor loss of battle and defeat. For I wave tall and free, to represent my own country.