Memorial Day

                                Fallen Heroes

If our Fallen Heroes could speak to us, this is what they might say...

Thank you for being here today, to honor me in this way.

I truly appreciate that some of you have come from far away.
Thank you for the flowers and the flag you've placed on my grave.
For the tears over the years, and the sweet memories you save.

Thank you for the cards and letters and the goodies you always sent.
For waiting by the telephone, you’ll never know how much it meant.
Thank you for being there each time I stepped off the plane,
For the tears, the hugs and kisses, even in down-pouring rain.

Thank you, wives, husbands and friends. I'll forever hold you in my heart.
For raising our children and teaching them the reasons we were apart.
Thank you, sons and daughters, for giving me purpose, hope and faith.
I did my duty upon the sea, and on distant lands, so you’d always be safe.

Thank you for the street, the highway, the school and the mall.
In my honor they carry my name, a reminder to one and all.
I am sorrowfully aware of the sadness and anguish you have borne.
No, the sacrifice was not too great, please don’t forever mourn. 

Thank you for honoring me today, I’m forever grateful, though I cannot say.
     

         23 May 2025.                                                               John V. Prater