Memorial Day memories

“Have faith my friend in what we do, the Veterans of Foreign Wars; we pass the torch to our brave young soldiers who fight to defend our shores

Many gave the ultimate sacrifice for this land of the free; others came home scarred for life with memories of what used to be

The many white crosses that cover this land we decorate today, a small flag placed in remembrance of a job well done, we’ll say

Our hero’s lying in peace overlooking the azure blue ocean, as we offer up an emotional prayer with heartfelt devotion

Memorial Day, a day of reverence to our fallen dead, memories of those left behind, the many tears we have shed

We too often take for granted the consequence of war, bodies that once were whole, now ravaged, causing the loss of self-control

Yet, we go on fighting for what we think is right, protecting the freedom of others, who also join in our plight

Memorial Day is for the living to reflect upon the past; the soldier has done his duty and has finished his arduous task

Let’s not forget what they stood for when they went off to war, thoughts of peace and loved ones left standing at the door

When taps are played, we bow our heads for those who have gone on before, let’s not forget Memorial Day by placing a wreath upon our door…

When we hear taps played throughout this land, this land of the brave and free, made safe by blood spilled upon the battlefield for people like you and me

Remember the hero that died today, as there surely will be more, protecting the very gates of freedom on some foreign and distant shore.”

Bud Ryan served in Korea from 1950 to 1954 as a Naval petty officer aboard the USS Eldorado. He is a past post commander of Maricopa’s VFW Post 12043.

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