From the 2010 and 11 threads

I recall something like this

Never in the history of man have so many given so much for the freedom of others

and

They willingly gave up all of their tomorrows so you could live freely today.

From the 2008 thread

As Lincoln said, "that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom .... " Lincoln's Gettysburg Address.


We honour the memory of brave, modest men and women who, by forfeiting their today, gave us our tomorrow. Remembering is easy. It connects us to our past, but also ties us inextricably to the future.



I stand here alone
with loved ones to hand;
my tributes to lay
on this salient land.
The voices within
as mem'ries unfold
of a comrade at peace now
who shall grow not old.

A tree gives me shade
in gardens so fine;
a stone with inscription
that goes beyond time.
The headstones are neat
in rows marching past
and the names of the fallen,
forever will last

A son kneels to touch
his father's cold stone;
a tear in his eye for
a friend long since gone.
A woman stands proud,
with medals on show,
for a husband who died that
his children might grow.

Recorded in stone
and gun metal grey,
those heroes in silence
look down as we pray.
The standard is dip'd,
the flowers are laid
then the music is sounded
and homage is paid.

They left us a torch
to carry with pride
and hope for a future
where peace can abide.
I dream of a life,
that's lived without fear,
it is for that tomorrow
our people lie here.

© June 2006 Nigel J.C. Turnbull