"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 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."
While there is no glorifying War, I have no illusions about my place in the world or the reasons why many of us get to live the lives and enjoy the freedoms we do. On this Memorial Day I pay my most humble respects to the men and women, military and civilian, who gave everything they had so that people globally could enjoy some small measure of freedom. Thanks sincerely to all who happen to find their way to this post, you know who you are, and we are truly grateful for your sacrifice.
Preach on Frank. We sleep peacefully at night while our men and women in uniform have our six. They seek little glory. Only the glory that comes from serving our country and the freedoms with which we are accustomed.
Hoooo Rahhhhh
Amen
A big thank you to each and every one (and their families) who has ever worn a uniform in the name of peace and freedom…
…a debt none of us mere civilians could ever hope to repay.
Nicely said, Frank. Thanks for this gentle reminder.
More than Cool!
Frank,
Words cannot express the emotions that many readers feel reading the words above. You have a “balanced” view of the current situation that many struggle putting down on “paper”. I’m sure many share similar feelings you so elequently expressed above but simply can’t find the words. The domain / internet community (and your blog) continues to blow my mind- my hope and prayer is that we use this to show the rest of humanity the promise and hope of mankind. There truly never has been anything even close to this- This is our time.
It depends which war you are talking about Frank.
There are wars where our guys are the heros (think WWW I & II) and wars where they are the oppresors.
Alas, things aren’t as simple. A uniform can be many things.
***FS*** I don’t like to think that way, but what makes America great is that people like you and I can have this discussion with respect and peace, without repurcussion. I do see your point.. Thanks sincerely for your comment sir.