Today is Remembrance Day here in Canada where we take a moment to look back at the sacrifices made by our veterans over the course of two World Wars, the Korean Conflict, and the current conflict in Afghanistan.
World War 1 holds an important place in Canadian history. It was on those bloodied fields of France and Belgium, in places like Ypres, Passchendale, and Vimy Ridge that Canada felt for the first time that it was truly a nation. And it was a Canadian army doctor who composed the poem that captured the spirit of this day.
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 agoWe 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.
It's Veteran's Day here in the U.S., as well. Thanks for remembering - all too many people these days forget. Canada has played a heroic role in the wars for freedom in the last 100 years, from Vimy Ridge to the Princess Pats in Afghanistan. If any Canadian Vets read this, thank you for your service - the people of the world owe you more than we can ever repay.
ReplyDeleteTschafer
I know it was one of your comments at Nathan Bransford's site which brought me here originally, and it was the funny that kept me coming back, but I think I love your work best when you're serious.
ReplyDeleteI have ever increasing respect for you, but still plan to argue audience with you someday.
And, Tschafer, I'm not a Canadian veteran, but I know quite a few: thanks for noticing. --slc