True Patriotism

My father in law, John Tanner, passed away on July 27th. A difficult time to be sure, especially for my wife and her family.

I knew he had served in Vietnam, and had witnessed first hand the shameful treatment many soldiers received upon their return. I knew him to be passionate about our country, and the state of things today. What I did not know is this man privately wrote poetry, and that a poem he wrote long ago that was read aloud at his funeral would expose me to a level of patriotism rarely seen or expressed today.

Here is the poem:

Dearly beloved, Red White and Blue
We went to fight, some died for you
With Love and Respect
We always stayed true
And never one time
Turned our back on you
We've watched you with pride
Through tears in our eyes
While some people cursed you
We stood by your side
Those who disgraced you
and spat in your face
Were welcomed back home
With a warm embrace
But those who loved you
Enough to die
Received no welcome
Please tell me why
We've searched for answers
We've really tried
We keep our feelings all inside
Were we wrong to use our guns?
Are we your bastards or your sons?
Please don't take my questions wrong
Cause I will love you
My whole life long
This is my country
Where I was given birth
Your still the greatest flag on earth

How many today could witness the horrors that this man surely did in war, receive the shameful treatment he did from his fellow citizens upon his return, and still feel the need to express such strong, heartfelt feelings for their country? I daresay, not very many...

Sadly, this level of love for ones country cannot be taught, I am convinced it must be inspired. Unfortunately many of our leaders who should be 'role models' and inspiration for our children in this area almost seem to hold our country and its values in contempt...

This is why men such as John Tanner should be held up as role models, especially while some are still here, and their sacrifices finally acknowledged.

Better late than never...