Til it's over "over there"

Tom Brokaw and his ilk are constantly harping on us to recall the bravery and sacrifices of the WWII generation, but almost everybody nowadays overlooks the lessons of their predecessors who fought in WWI.

Not me, not today. Those who fought in the "Great War" that was supposed to "end all wars" showed the courage and conviction that (sadly) is not found in large amounts anymore. I mean, how many people outside of the dryer do you hear making the vow they made: "And, we won't come back til it's over over there"?!?

In memory of those steadfast heroes of the First World War and in hopes it may strengthen the resolve of modern Americans , I am proud to include in this post a copy of the poem that has become so closely identified with their generation's struggle:

In Flanders Fields

by Lt. Col John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)

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.