For our consideration this Veteran’s Day weekend, Chuck Winter sends along this poem, which was penned several weeks ago by Jim White, a member of the Grace Brethren Church of Sunnyside, Washington (Nathan Zakahi, pastor):
Very many people, through more than two hundred thirty years,
Have stood up for Old Glory, in times of sweat, and blood, and tears.
Each generation has risen up to meet their country’s call.
Freedom must be won time and again, there is no “once for all”.
The light of liberty has been fueled by a nobly burning spark.
The valor of millions has bestowed upon our land sweet freedom’s mark.
Earning freedom’s blessings has come not free, but with great cost,
Not just expense of treasure, many lives were also lost.
Recipients of their service, we live today in light,
Though many, and their comrades, gave their all to win the fight.
Around the world, and through the years, in climates hot or cold,
Our veterans have earned our gratitude, that multitude of the bold.
Never should we take for granted what our vets have done.
Unappreciated vets—their number should be “none”.
Sacrifice for others has characterized many a selfless vet.
Among us now are many who gave, and others are serving yet.
Do we appreciate their service, are thanks upon our lips,
For those who’ve stood for freedom’s cause—on land, in air, on ships?
As we, on this day of remembrance, think of vets now and before,
May our attitude be of thanksgiving to them, today and evermore.
You and I live in liberty and freedom, to them we are in debt.
For what they’ve done, in the past and now, be sure to thank a vet.
James W. White
Teacher—Grade 5
Prosser Heights Elementary School
Prosser, Washington
October 21, 2007