None of them planed to die a hero
none of them wanted to die at all.
They gave the ultimate sacrifice
when they answered freedoms call.
They wore stripes of many colors
those who chose to serve.
Police, Fire, EMT, Military;
both active and reserve.
They came from every corner,
every state of this great land.
They all had pledged in their hearts
for freedom to take a stand.
With firm belief they did what was needed
in each time and place.
Regardless of the tears they might cause
on many a loved ones face.
If you asked did they serve for flag and country,
if that is why they answered freedoms call.
They would stand proud and say "yes
but that does not say it all."
"We did it for the guy on the job
who drives home to his wife.
Who works so hard each day
to give his family a better life.
We did it for the people in this place
who we see are being oppressed.
Because we know all God's children
deserve freedoms best.
We did it for our friends,
who stand to our left and right.
The ones we know we can trust
in the mist of freedoms fight.
Lastly for our families,
we ask that they please forgive.
We had to pay a heavy price
so in freedom they all might live.
When you see our coffins
draped in a flag of red, white, and blue.
Know that we answered freedoms call
for each and every one of you."
None of us plan to die a hero
none of us want to die at all.
We will give the ultimate sacrifice
if it is needed for freedoms call.
So when you see that banner waving,
that flag of red, white, and blue.
Remember that we answered freedoms call
for our God, our families, our country and you.

07/20/2003

Author's Note: Dedicated to the men and women who have served, are serving now, and will serve the people of this grateful nation.

Posted on 07/22/2003
Copyright © 2024 Charles M Harrison