George Washington: The Greatest American

In the month of July, as we celebrate the birthday of our great country on July 4th, it is a great time to reflect on a person who many refer to as the “Greatest American”! But what, you might ask, made George Washington worthy of such a title? To be honest, after visiting his home and the Washington museum at Mount Vernon as well as studying more about his life, George Washington has become one of my hero’s. So, I might be a bit biased. But here are a few reasons why I think he is the ”Greatest American.”

George Washington was known for his bravery in battle. As the leader and the General of the continental army during the Revolutionary War, he frequently led his troops into battle on the front lines and did so with such courage and fearlessness that he inspired his men to fight even in the face of great danger, adversity and unspeakable odds. His ability to rally the American troops by his bravery and courage no doubt impacted the outcome of the Revolutionary War beyond measure. In one battle for example, Washington had two horses shot out from under him and four bullet holes in his coat while riding up and down the lines to rally the troops. It is not an overstatement to say that there would be no United States of America and, therefore, no July 4th celebrations without the bravery and courage of George Washington!

Washington is also considered the “Father of the Country” because of his great leadership in the founding of America. He was a visionary leader who had a clear picture of the future of the United States, and he worked hard and sacrificed everything to achieve that vision. He was a thinker and a planner who worked on strategies which would empower the United States to thrive and become a very successful country. We are living everyday in George Washington’s dream and vision for this country that became a reality because of his visionary leadership.

He was also a servant leader who never sought his own fame and glory. Washington always involved other leaders and recognized their great contributions to the cause. Great leaders always surround themselves with very talented and gifted people to accomplish the goals that are critical to the cause. After serving two terms as President having been elected unanimously both times, there were many who wanted him to stay on as President and run for a third term. But Washington chose to set a precedent for all future Presidents, and he stepped down to return to his farm in Mount Vernon. Washington was making a huge statement to all Americans and to the world that we are democracy, and we will be lead by elected leaders and not by Kings or tyrants.

And perhaps most importantly, Washington walked with great integrity and was known for being a person of character who always kept his word and sought to do the right thing. He practiced self discipline and was respected by others for being truthful and honest in all situations. He also did not tolerate people who were untrustworthy or people who lied or sought to manipulate others for their own gain. He expected those around him to always speak the truth and to be loyal.

As we prepare to celebrate our country’s birthday on the Fourth of July, and as we seek to enjoy all our country has to offer this Summer, I pray we will remember the “Greatest American” and seek to emulate him in all that we do and in the way we live and treat each other.

One place you may want to consider visiting this Summer is Washington’s beautiful and well preserved house and 500 acre farm at Mount Vernon in Fairfax County, Virginia which was established in 1757. There is a wonderful restaurant, museum and store there plus you can visit the grave of George and Martha Washington as you explore the beautiful grounds of the property!

Happy Fourth of July and God Bless America!

THE VIEWS OF SUBMITTED EDITORIALS MAY NOT BE THE EXPRESS VIEWS OF THE ALABAMA GAZETTE.