Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Day Weekend 2011. Photo by Jill Purtan
Over my last few years on the air, I recited the following poem every Memorial Day Weekend in honor and in memory of the brave men and women who made the Ultimate Sacrifice defending the freedom and liberty we are so lucky to enjoy in this country.
The poem, “The Inscription”, was sent to us by a listener, Paul Reside.
Paul’s Grandmother, Annabelle Gunnett Jones wrote it around 1932. The poem had been printed in the Perry County, Ohio newspaper for a number of years on “Decoration Day”, or as we know it today - “Memorial Day”. Annabelle was inspired to write the poem by her husband, a WWI Veteran, as a tribute to the Unknown Soldier.
As you enjoy your Memorial Day, I encourage you to take a moment to share “The Inscription” with your family and friends. Let it serve as a reminder to us all of the gratitude owed the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have laid down their lives so that we may live ours.
Just click on the underlined link below to hear me reading the words written nearly 80 years ago - that still resonate today. I’ve also posted a few photos of Arlington National Cemetery taken this weekend by my daughter Jill.
Have a safe (and hopefully dry) Memorial Day!
- Dick
A View From Above… Arlington National Cemetery, Memorial Day Weekend 2011 Photo by Jill Purtan
Guarding the Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier - Memorial Day Weekend 2011. Photo by Jill Purtan
A Flag For Every Fallen Hero - Memorial Day Weekend 2011. Photo by Jill Purtan
Gone But Never Forgotten - Memorial Day Weekend 2011. Photo by Jill Purtan