Walking Home -- A Memorial Day Tribute

The hour of your sacrifice
Can never be measured
It’s a gift we treasure
With the beating of our hearts

The weight of your courage
Is carried in a smile
By the grace of your shield
We never have to yield

The respect of your honor
Your greatest strength and power
Encases integrity
The soul of our humanity

The wisdom to lead
Shapes those who will exceed
Beyond their wildest dreams
Because of everything you achieved

Whenever you are walking home
Military, fire, police and all
There are no words to describe
Our gratitude and deepest pride.

Excerpt from One Nation, One Mission, One Promise — The continuing journey of fulfilling the promises made on July 4, 1776…

The image came to me before the words, but as soon as I saw it I began to think about our first responders.  From a fire person who will run into a inferno to save a life, a doctor, nurse, administrator who will assist you when you run into an emergency room, a police officer who will defuse a potential catastrophe while we exit the subway, reporters who will go on the front lines to keep us informed, volunteers who will help during a natural disaster and most importantly, to all those this day has been created and dedicated to, our military.  From home and around the world, to all different races, creeds, colors and religions, thank you for everything.  We get to celebrate, have bar-b-ques, have fun and spend time with our family and friends because of all of you.  Thank you may seem like two small words, but our hearts and gratitude are large.