About the Author
Born in Philadelphia, birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, to parents who were born on Independence
Day, Harry Turner believes in the greatness of America and the resilience of its people. Following the attacks of
September 11, 2001, Turner was inspired to write a poem that could be used to encourage and comfort his fellow
Americans. Titled "The American Spirit," the 33-line poem is upbeat, patriotic and inclusive of all Americans,
regardless of political party or country of origin.
A retired sales and marketing executive now living in Houston, Texas, Turner has invested his own money to print
and distribute free copies of the poem. He has made it available for use by the Freedoms Foundation at Valley
Forge (FFVF) and FFVF chapters to benefit citizenship education programs. In 2007 "The American Spirit
Monument," a gleaming marble structure next to statue of George Washington, was installed and dedicated on the
Freedoms Foundation campus in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
"The American Spirit Monument with Mr. Turner's poem inscribed is an important gift for future generations, who will
be able to read it and appreciate the blessings they have as Americans," said Michael E. Di Yeso, Freedoms
Foundation at Valley Forge president and CEO.
"At a time when many are focused on what's wrong with America, the poem celebrates the can-do spirit that keeps
America moving forward against all odds," said Turner. "It is my gift, from the heart, to the nation I love."