"Sixteen Military Wives"- The Decemberists

This song is about different parts of American culture that are disappointing or overestimated. It starts out by addressing the idea that many men go to war, and very few men return home. It then goes on to show how many other parts of society seem to start out as large numbers, but only a very small percentage "survives" or actually makes a difference. The theme is people overestimate the actual success and capabilities of America. I believe this is shown  through the somewhat sarcastic chorus:

Cheer them on to their rivals
Cause America can, and America can't say no
And America dies, if America says it's so
It's so!