Author's Note: While
Independence Day is a celebration of the patriotism
and sacrifice that first gave birth to the
United States of America in 1776 it remains a day
for all Americans to remember the ongoing sacrifices
of our
Armed Forces personnel in their defense of our
nation . . .
The Fourth of July is a time of great
celebration, yet
the images that bring such delight – the "rocket's
red glare" – harkens back to times of war and
struggle. This
poem was written for my Grandpa, who served with
distinction in WWII yet remained quiet about his own
achievements; we never knew he had been awarded the
Bronze Star until after he had passed away. He
remains
one of the great examples in my life, a quiet and
loving man who put his service to God, country and
neighbor
before his own needs or recognition. This poem is a
tribute to all of our veterans, who give us the
right to rejoice
in our Independence Day.
