Remembering the Brave

Today we remember the brave soldiers that gave their lives to solidify the freedom that we are fortunate to have today.  Our world was shaped by men who were willing to fight tyranny and the evils of the past.  I salute them and am forever grateful for their contribution to our nation.

I think of my grandparents today as they lived through the struggles of World War One and Two.  My grandad was in the service as well as my grandma and grandpa. I loved looking at their medals growing up as child and reflecting on what it may have been like during that time in our history.  I am proud of their contribution and will never forget.

So at 11:11 this morning,  take the time to pause and remember those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom we so often take fore-granted.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
      Between the crosses, row on row,
   That mark our place; and in the sky
   The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
   Loved and were loved, and now we lie
         In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
   The torch; be yours to hold it high.
   If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
         In Flanders fields.

Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae