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.
-John McCrae, In Flanders Fields
Today is Memorial Day. Before you run to the beach or the park, or wherever you’re spending the holiday, take a moment to remember those dear soldiers who have fallen. They won’t be going to the beach or park today. They gave their lives so you could live.
You may think, as I do, that some of our more recent battles were better not fought, but that doesn’t make the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought in them any less noble or honorable. The loss of life is even more tragic or regrettable when stupid politicians needlessly send young men and women off to die.
To those of you who have lost loved ones in battle, my heartfelt condolences. To those who have fallen, my eternal gratitude for your sacrifice.