On the 11th of November,
Near the midpoint of the Fall
Let us pause and remember
All who served gave some,
And some who served gave all.
If we can read news and opinions,
In a free and independent press,
The bravest and best journalists
Will be quick to tell us,
It is the veterans we must bless.
If we speak out and share opinions
And feel this is our right,
It is not the poets, but the warriors
Who ensured we could do this,
By winning many a fearsome fight.
If we are willing to come together,
To demonstrate for what we think is true
It is the veteran, not the activist,
Who gives us the precious chance,
To do what we need to do.
If we can pray upon the Sabbath,
And worship as we see fit.
It is the veterans, not the clergy,
Who bore the brunt of the battle,
So our creed could be as we wish it!
When we challenge the boundaries
Of society’s behavioral and legal rules,
It was the veteran, not the lawyer,
Who ensured that we aren’t prosecuted,
In Kangaroo Courts by knaves and fools.
If we participate in politics and elections,
And strive for outcomes we think best,
It is the veteran, not the demagogue
Who secured our right,
To state our choice in this ongoing civic quest!
If we celebrate this holiday
And listen to speeches and cheer for a band
The veterans' valor, not the orators' words
Give us a reason for joy and hope
In neighborhoods, and homes throughout the land
On the 11th of November,
When we gaze at the unfurled flag
Let us pause and remember
For those who served and died in its service,
It is a standard, not a rag!
Larry Conley
11 November 2018
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