Stumbled across an old green box in my grandfather's house Inside was a cross, some old dog tags And a picture from when he was shipping out So I showed it to him and said, " Tell me about those days"
When he looked inside, he closed his eyes, and all he could say was "I hear bagpipes crying Amazing Grace, Omaha Beach and her crashing waves Old Glory draped like Heaven's mercy over the fallen sons
I see all the heroes who were willing to fight In the name of freedom, laying down their lives And praying God's grace would keep us safe from harm Until they brought us boys back home".
Those words to a girl that became a woman Now I'm ankle deep in this Persian sand And everyday I'm giving all I can Because I'm damn proud to be an American.
Yeah, I've made some friends and I've lost some too When I think about what they gave for me and you.
I hear those bagpipes crying Amazing Grace Tears rolling down a mother's face Old Glory draped like Heaven's mercy over the fallen sons
And praying God's grace would keep you safe from harm Until they bring you boys back home.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Posted: Jan 2011
About this poem:
The memory of finding my grandfather's old foot locker, my service during Operation Desert Storm and a tribute to those who have served and to those still serving.
FellsmanLake District, Cumbria, England UKJan 19, 2011
Beautiful, poignant, educational and cathartic...
A very moving read, Mary.
Bill
Macduff5Newcastle, New South Wales AustraliaJan 19, 2011
A nice blend of patriotism and reflection for the fallen. Well done. Oh yes, Mary I checked that site you sent me about your outlaw ancester. Fascinating stuff, it would make a good film script.
Hi, ReaderOfSouls, My heart is always heavy with the daily sacrifices, as well as the ultimate sacrifice of life, made by our military service men and women at home and around the world. Sounds of taps will now be joined by bagpipes crying Amazing Grace as the part of the high price of peace. Thank you - for the poem and the service to our country. May we honor these sacrifices by living for peace and justice.
Comments (4)
A very moving read, Mary.
Bill
Oh yes, Mary I checked that site you sent me about your outlaw ancester. Fascinating stuff, it would make a good film script.
proud to belong to such a tradition - such a
very special brotherhood.
My heart is always heavy with the daily sacrifices, as well as the ultimate sacrifice of life, made by our military service men and women at home and around the world. Sounds of taps will now be joined by bagpipes crying Amazing Grace as the part of the high price of peace. Thank you - for the poem and the service to our country. May we honor these sacrifices by living for peace and justice.