I don't want to put a damper on everyone's weekend. However, as a veteran, this poem has had a significant impact on my life. The meaning behind it has guided my actions for many years. Remember those who cannot be with us today....
If you are able, save them a place inside of you and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go. Be not ashamed to say you loved them, though you may or may not have always. Take what they have left and what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own. And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind.
Major Michael Davis O'Donnell 1 January 1970 Dak To, Vietnam |