Beneath the Folded Flag

Beneath the folded flag they rest,

in quiet fields the larks still sing;

the wind moves gently through the grass,

as if to brush a soldier’s wing.

Their names are carved in stone and sky,

yet live in hearts that will not fade;

each dawn that breaks, each star that shines,

is lit by sacrifice they made.

We walk in freedoms they preserved,

through streets their courage made our own;

and every step, a silent vow—

we’ll guard the seeds they once had sown.

So let the bugle’s echo rise,

a silver thread through morning’s blue;

for peace was bought with steadfast lives,

and love that gave the world anew.

Fellow Compatriots,

Memorial Day is an important day in America, because it is a day that we celebrate, honor, and remember those who gave their lives to protect our country. We encourage everyone to take time out of their schedules this weekend to unite, observe, and remember those who gave their all in the service of America, in the service of freedom, and in the service of justice. We remember their sacrifice, their valor, and their grace. We remember their smiles; their loves; their laughter; their essential, vibrant, and transcendent humanity.

So, in this time we live by the light of the flame of liberty they kept burning. Our freedom is a result of their courage. The women and men we honor today sacrificed their lives for our nation, and yet remain eternally in our hearts — forever proud, forever honorable, forever American.

They were the sentinels of liberty, defenders of the down trodden, liberators of nations.

We cherish the memory and pray for the peace for which our service members have laid down their lives, and we mourn with the families and friends of those we have lost, and hope they find comfort in knowing their loved ones died with honor.

I encourage each of you to pause on this special day to reflect on those that have given their all in defense of life, liberty, freedom, and the American Way.

Fraternally,

Larry Magdy

President, Philadelphia Continental Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution