It's that time of the year....

It's that time of the year....

Sunday, May 27, 2012

50,000 Names Carved in the Wall…

There’s teddy bears and high school rings
and old photographs that mamas bring
Of daddies with their young boy, playing ball.

There’s combat boots,he used to wear,
When he was sent over there.
And there’s 50,000 names, carved in the wall

There’s cigarettes, and cans of beer
and notes that say I miss you dear
and children who don’t say anything at all.

There’s purple hearts and packs of gum
fatherless daughters and fatherless sons
and there’s 50,000 names carved in the wall

They come from all across this land
In pickup trucks and mini vans
Searching for a boy from long ago

They scan the wall and find his name
The teardrops fall like pouring rain
and silently they leave a gift and go

There’s Stars of David and rosary beads

and crucifixion figurines
and flowers of all colors large and small

There’s a Boy Scout badge and a merit pin
Little American flags waving in the wind
and there’s 50,000 names carved in the wall

written by Jamie O’Hara

11 comments:

  1. This reminds me forcefully of our visit to Washington D.C. a few years ago. I've never been so moves as I was seeing the memorials for was past. God bless you my friend.

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  2. Thank you for this post, Beth. It certainly does make us think about all those who are no longer with us, but gave the ultimate for us.

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  3. I loved the post Twin. I tried hard to get the powers that be to create that wall or any memorial at all to our troops. They finally listened to all the entreaties from averyone.

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    Replies
    1. It sure took long enough for the veterans from that war to be recognized.

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  4. What a beautiful song and tribute. :)
    Have a pleasant Memorial Day.

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    1. This song brings me to tears each time I hear it.

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  5. My Heart breaks for those that were not able to get their wish...to come home.
    Blessings, Joanne

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  6. Replies
    1. Two of my brothers served multiple tours in 'Nam. It saddens me to say that our veterans from that war were not treated with respect at all. I am so glad that it is different now.

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  7. Hi Beth, I love your Blog! This is such a great poem to share on Memorial Day. I notice that you are from Illinois. I live in Arizona now, but lived in Southern Illinois (Belleville area) for five years and really enjoyed it (except the winters -- like you). Thanks for stopping by my blog and following. I am now your newest follower! Have a great Memorial Day.

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  8. Thank you Jones Family!

    My brother lives near Bellville.

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