The Star Spangled Banner inspires all manner
Of feelings in folks when it plays
Every bareback bronc veteran feels a rush of adrenaline
Long after his rodeo days.

The Anthem's first sound brings the Chute Boss around
Yellin' "Pull 'em down boys! Let's rodeo!"
And you straddle the chute, ease down on the brute,
Grab rigging and stretch latigo.

Then the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air
Grow distant; seem to fade into dim
Rosin squeaks in your handhold, the horse shivers as if cold,
And for eight seconds, it's just you and him.