Sing – I am Thankful to Be an American

A cheerful children’s song expressing gratitude for the freedom and blessings of being an American.

Due to licensing limitations, The Badge Archive cannot publish the lyrics for this song.

Lyrics and Melody by: Otis Skillings
Melody by: Otis Skillings
Copyright: © 1971 Lillenas Publishing Co. (administered by Music Services, Inc.)
Status: The lyrics for this song are unavailable.

Recordings

History

Otis Skillings wrote “I am Thankful to Be an American” during a period of significant social and political unrest in the United States. It was the finale of his patriotic musical In God We Trust, designed to provide a positive, faith-based perspective on national heritage for church and school youth groups.

In 1986, the song was introduced to a new generation through the Patch the Pirate adventure, The Great American Time Machine. In the story, the character of Patch the Pirate uses the song to teach children that American citizenship is a blessing.

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Updated on April 22, 2026, Published on April 20, 2025. Author:

Tia Kennard

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