Today we learned about the poem, In Flanders Fields, which was written by a Canadian soldier who wished to honor the brave servicemen who had died during a particularly gruesome battle in World War I.
In Flanders Fields
By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD
(1872-1918)
Canadian Army
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 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 fields.
The poem was published in the British magazine "Punch" and became very popular. The idea of wearing a poppy as a sign of remembrance for those who died and served was then started.
November 11th is known as Veteran's Day, Remembrance Day, or Armistice Day, depending on the country you live in. In the United Kingdom it is still customary to wear a poppy around Remembrance Day to honor those who served.
We are thankful for those who serve and for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Have a blessed Veteran's Day!
