To my grandfather who always treated me well...and all of his friends who didn't return from 'Over There'
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.
Comments
True Story
My paternal grandfather was drafted twice. The first time was into the Russian army, a 25 year hitch. In 1909 Russia and Japan had a war. Grandpa was put on of the ships headed towards the Japanese. The ships docked in London to refuel. He was given leave and never returned, ending at Ellis Island as a new immigrant. In 1917 the United States entered WWI and a draft was initiated. Grandpa was drafted and told to report for duty on November 11, 1918. He did and was told to go to a room where he waited several hours. Eventually an officer entered the room and told the draftees to "go home."
shalimar
Flanders Fields is a poem
Flanders Fields is a poem perfect for Remembrance Day / Veteran's Day. My father and brother Bob both served in the U.S. Army during war time. I have nothing but respect for all Veterans and soldiers as they have either chosen to serve, or ere drafted in war time to protect their homeland. If posted as story, would give a kudo.
May Your Light Forever Shine