Tuesday 10 November 2015

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 .......



No comments:

Post a Comment