The Glenwood Village Tearoom

Memorial Day, 2011

For all the times . . .

you toiled over your decision to become a warrior,

you starched your uniforms crisp and spit polished boots ,

you trained so hard you couldn't push your body another inch,

you stayed motivated to prove yourself and pushed to a new level,

we were grateful.

For all the times. . .

you experienced the pain of saying goodbye,

you missed the birth of your newborn,

your chair was empty at family celebrations,

you did not spend with treasured friends,

we were grateful.

For all the times. . .

you traveled to unfamiliar lands,

you trudged through knee deep muddy fields,

you slept on cold, rocky ground,

you stood watch alone, listening and waiting through the night,

you closed your eyes but could not sleep,

you were overwhelmed with fear,

you pushed into the dark unknown,

we were grateful.

For all the times. . .

you took charge amidst chaos,

you felt the wind of an enemy bullet,

you cried out to God for protection,

you begged for courage and bravery,

you saved the life of a stranger,

you held your brother as he died,

your heart sank from the horrors,

we were grateful.

For all the times. . .

you returned home alive,

brought the battle home,

awoke with the graphic memories,

cried alone,

and felt there was no tomorrow,

we were praying for you.

It is because of your unwavering sacrifice that America remains the land of the free. We are forever grateful!

Happy Memorial Day everyone!