Remember Our Fallen on Memorial Day

Freedom is your legacy,
Paid for with your precious life,
Far from home and family,
In wars both wise and unwise.

I walk in light thanks to you,
Teach, write, speak, think without fear,
And our flag flies proud and true,
Beacon of hope through the years.

I stand proudly for our flag,
Hand over heart as I sing,
Our Anthem whene’r it plays,
As my voice cracks and eyes tear.

Emotions run high for me,
Not from empty foolish pride,
But because in her I see,
Your most poignant sacrifice.

Freedom comes not from its wish,
Nor peace from prayers on their own,
They come from soldiers like you,
Who selflessly gave their all.

I carry you in my heart,
Every day of every year,
The debt I owe you cannot,
Be repaid in words or tears.

Rest in peace, beloved dead,
May God grant you honors due,
Today I will fly our flag,
And in it always see you.

____________________________

You can hear me read this poem and one other (Death of a Quiet Soldier based on an actual event) in my Apple Podcast by clicking HERE.

Please take a moment this Memorial Day to remember our fallen. They served with honor and served as bulwarks against tyranny in two world wars. They served with honor and died in foolish wars as well in service of their country. They paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy. And so did their families. Please remember them and say a prayer for them if so inclined, or a silent “thank you” for their service.