11 November 2006, Veteran's Day
In Flanders Fields By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918) Canadian Army
IN FLANDERS FIELDS the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
This poem became greatly associated with Armistice Day which was signed November 11, 1918. Whether you know it by Armistice Day, Remembrance Day, or Veteran's Day, it is a day we celebrated the end of World War I, the war to end all wars. Well, as we have proven, that didn't happen. But it is this day that we stop and remember those who sacrificed of themselves so that the rest may attempt to live in peace. Although I can not, of course, give you the most accurate information, the last records I could verify showed 2839 American soldiers have died in Iraq and approximately 200 soldiers in Afghanistan. I do not consider their deaths lightly, or trivial, or wasted. For they gave their lives to help secure our freedom, and the freedom of the people in those countries. As long as there is evil in the world, men and women will heed to the calling of a higher purpose that I can not explain. As a police officer, I have seen death too many times. Each time, I wept inside for that loss of life. But the pride that swells up in me when I see my Flag of the United States of America, each time I see a veteran holding strong to the values establish by this country, I cannot contain those tears. We must stay strong in those beliefs. To you, the current soldiers of all nations standing against evil, to you, the veterans of past wars, Thank You.
http://www.legacy.com/Soldiers.asp
http://www.iwillsoaragain.com/
http://www.fallenheroesmemorial.com/links.html
Be safe and have a good day.
3 comments:
Son, that was very touching and between the tears I write Thank You and I Love you. Proud to be your MOM.
Wow! That was a very cool thing you did yesterday and something I won't forget.
There is a common bond amongst vets no matter what era or location, be it WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, Iraq or anyplace in the world. It goes without saying that all of your sacrifices for our freedom back here at home is so very much appreciated.
Hey, here's a nice thought.
The next time we thank our fellow veterans for their military service on Veterans Day it will be a LOCAL CALL!!!!
Happy Veteran's Day big guy!!
I think you do have a future in publishing. That was your best work so far. I can remember when I never thought twice about "Veterans Day" -- it was just another paid holiday. But that's no longer the case. I guess 911 was the wake up call that made me realize the sacrifices that have been made (and will continue to be made) for our country. You are doing an honorable service to your country and we are very proud of you. I hope you are home with us next Veteran's Day and every one to come! We Love you!
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