“Thank you for serving” said a lady that morning

As I watched the flag at half mast

I just smiled, said “You’re welcome”, and left it at that

But my mind drifted back to the past

Back to the day when we stood young and straight

And I knew we’d be marching to war

We’d be faithful defending our country and homes

As the group of us solemnly swore

Youthful strength in our hearts then, we’d all live forever

We’d be gallant and answer the call

The horizon’s dark clouds gave us no cause for fear

We’d be home soon, beloved by all

We knew little of life then, we small band of brothers

We had no thoughts of marching through Hell

Adventure and glory awaited us all

But alas, far too many boys fell

So we did what we had to, in the best way we could

And our numbers were thinned more and more

And the lucky came home and the unlucky didn’t

And we wept at their passing and swore

We swore we’d remember them all of our lives

For the price that they all had to pay

They paid for our freedom with all that they had

Bless them all on Memorial Day

So don’t thank me for serving, though I know you will

On this one day we honor our dead

We're old gray soldiers with watery eyes

As the old memories drift through our heads

Our brothers in arms who will stay always young

We remember their laughter and smiles

And their sacrifice kept our great country free

Through many long years and long miles

This day that was set aside so long ago

One day that has stood through the years

A day set aside not for laughter and games

But remembrance, reflection and tears

And pride in our nation and those who have passed

They will live in America's hearts

We're mourn that their young lives were not meant to last

And we'll thank them as each new day starts

Memorial Day