Placid waters flow,
Lazily this summer's day,
But I hear the falls.

Walking into the final sunset,
My shadow stretches far behind,
Touching all I've done,
Has it been enough?

Freedom is your legacy,
Paid for with your precious life,
Far from home and family,
In wars both wise and unwise.

I walk in light thanks to you,
Teach, write, speak, think without fear,
And our flag flies proud and true,
Beacon of hope through the years.

I stand proudly for our flag,
Hand over heart as I sing,
Our Anthem whene’r it plays,
As my voice cracks and eyes tear.

Emotions run high for me,
Not from empty foolish pride,
But because in her I see,
Your most poignant sacrifice.

Freedom comes not from its wish,
Nor peace from prayers on their own,
They come from soldiers like you,
Who selflessly gave their all.

I carry you in my heart,
Every day of every year,
The debt I owe you cannot,
Be repaid in words or tears.

Rest in peace, beloved dead,
May God grant you honors due,
Today I will fly our flag,
And in it always see you.

Capturing meaning,
From life's flowing tapestry,
Rendered in one frame.

Evil seduces,
Good uplifts you to fly free,
Will you soar or fall?

Death has no meaning,
For those who have sown good seeds,
That will bear sweet fruit.

Standing at death's door,
Evil can only despair,
Good smiles marching through.