In Flanders field 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 ago
We 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 field.
“In Flanders Field” was written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae after witnessing the striking red poppy blooms bursting up from the broken ground where countless soldiers sacrificed their lives during World War I. It has since become one of the most prominent works of art created from the Great War, and is read at many Memorial Day ceremonies.
Memorial Day, which originated at the end of the Civil war, pays homage to fallen soldiers in the United States who gave their life for the freedom of others. This day of remembrance is observed with visits to cemeteries and memorial services to honor the fallen soldiers. Visitors often leave flowers, potted memorial gardens, and American Flags at loved one’s graves as a way to honor their soldier. Red poppies are also worn on clothing – an ode to McCrae’s “In Flanders Field.” In addition to services of commemoration, many cities also host parades to celebrate the bravery of US Military members.
This Memorial Day, Monday May 27, take a moment to remember our fallen soldiers, thank veterans and service members, and be grateful for our freedom which they fought for and continue to protect.
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