Stand Up For America Day

It all started in the late 1960s – a time when America was hurting. The Vietnam War had left the country divided, and patriotic pride seemed to have faded into the background. Across the nation, returning heroes were met not with cheers and confetti, but with protests and silence.

But in the small city of Port Wentworth, Georgia, one man wasn’t about to sit quietly and watch. Pastor Leon Drummond of the Port Wentworth Christian and Missionary Alliance Church felt something had to be done. Fueled by frustration and love for his country, he gathered a group of local children, handed out flags, and led them on a simple bicycle parade through town – stars and stripes flying proudly from every handlebar. What happened next was nothing short of inspiring. That small, flag-waving bike ride struck a deep chord with the townspeople. The sight of their children pedaling for patriotism rekindled a sense of pride – and sparked a big idea. If a few kids on bicycles could move hearts, what could the entire city do?

Enter Mayor P.B. Edwards, a decorated World War II veteran with a big heart and an even bigger vision. Determined to remind Amer:ica what it meant to stand tall and united; he helped turn that simple bike ride into a full-fledged celebration of faith, freedom, and community.

On May 6, 1972, the very first Stand Up for America Day came to life. Mayor Edwards led the way down the streets of Port Wentworth, followed by dozens of red, white, and blue bicycles, marching bands, floats, and proud citizens waving flags high. The cheers echoed through town – America’s spirit was alive again, right there in Port Wentworth.

Years later, reflecting on the event after his retirement, Edwards said, “I wasn’t sure what would happen to our Stand Up for America Day celebrations when I left office. But when the city announced a committee to keep it going, it brought great pride to my heart.”

Though Mayor Edwards has since passed away, his legacy continues to shine brightly. Fifty-three years later, Stand Up for America Day remains a highlight of Port Wentworth’s calendar – a timeless tradition celebrating the nation, its heroes, and the unbreakable bond of community.

Today, the parade still winds proudly through Old Town Port Wentworth, following the historic Atlantic Coastal Highway, first built in 1735 to connect South Carolina to Florida. And just as it was in 1972, the American flag still leads the way – waving high, commanding respect, and stirring hearts to laughter, pride, and sometimes even tears.

Because here in Port Wentworth, standing up for America isn’t just a slogan.

It’s a tradition.