To Remember, a poem in honour of my grandfather and his brothers.

As years pass by

And memories fade

We sometimes forget

The sacrifices made

The “Greatest Generation”

As they were called 

Gave so much of themselves

To benefit us all

World War One, World War Two

Korea, to name a few

So many brave men & women

Bid their families adieu

In battlefields they rallied

Put up such a fight

So that the oppressed

Could again see day’s light

Their courage would not falter

But sadly we must say

That many brave soldiers

Saw not the light of day

Their sacrifice was mighty

Their cause absolute

So today we must pause

And reflect in tribute

It takes but a moment

To stop and reflect

It’s a moment in time

Some shall never forget

This post was inspired by my dear late grandfather, Neil Alexander McInnes.  My grandpa was a decorated veteran of World War Two, having enlisted along with his brothers and my great uncles, James and Russell.  My uncle Jimmy and my grandpa returned from Europe, but sadly Russell did not.  My grandpa was very proud of his service driving a munitions truck through the battlefields, but was forever changed by the experience.  For many years as a little boy and up until his passing in 1992, I would watch or assist him in polishing his medals for Decoration Day and other events.  He was ever so proud of those medals, but I could always get a sense of profound sadness from him at the same time.  If only folks knew how war affected those who experienced it first hand, perhaps they might rethink their actions.  If only .......