IN THE WINGS

Jennifer K Mahal

The stars and stripes drape over everything these days. Wherever you

turn, there’s an American flag drifting in the breeze. So it’s no

surprise that a Costa Mesa resident has written a song about Old Glory.

Actually, Bob Applegate wrote the song “Long May You Wave” in 1991,

during Operation Desert Storm. However the singer/songwriter, who

operates an auto detailing business, recently updated his verses to

reflect current sentiment.

“Oh that red white and blue, we love you, yes we do,” starts the song.

“From the east to the west, Old Glory you’re the best.”

Born in Wyoming, Applegate describes himself as an Army brat who

traveled the world. He was in the Army for four years, but the

54-year-old said he missed going to Vietnam because both his father -- an

Army colonel -- and his brother went.

“I had to be the sole surviving son,” said the 25-year Costa Mesa

resident.

Applegate took flamenco guitar lessons in eighth grade, and started to

write songs when he was in college at St. Leo’s College in Tampa, Fla. He

went to UC Berkeley for a graduate degree in theology with the intention

of becoming a Franciscan monk, but decided it wasn’t the right path for

him.

“It wasn’t what I expected it to be,” he said.

Applegate has received some local airplay in the past for his

political songs like “Watch out for Uncle Sam,” which demanded that

Ayatollah Khomeini release the hostages.

In 1991, after writing “Long May You Wave,” Applegate decided to send

it to Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf. He called Kuwait, trying to reach the

general, but was told to write him instead.

Applegate sent him a tape of the song and in July 1991 received a

letter from Schwarzkopf.

“I have received many original songs since the beginning of Operation

Desert Shield and Desert Storm, but yours touched my heart; you are a

talented composer,” the letter said. “Our nation’s flag is very important

to me. Unlike any other, it represents the right to life, liberty and the

pursuit of happiness.”

Applegate, who plays guitar at private parties and weddings, said the

general’s words have meant a lot to him.

With the events of Sept. 11 in mind, he is remastering a CD of his

tune and plans to send it out to area radio stations.

“The flag has always been close to me,” he said.

* * *

Do you know a local artist, writer, painter, singer, filmmaker, etc.,

who deserves to get noticed? Send your nominee to In The Wings, Daily

Pilot, 330 W. Bay St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627, by fax to (949) 646-4170 or

by e-mail to o7 [email protected]

* JENNIFER MAHAL is features editor of the Daily Pilot.