We stand before a hall of witnesses of all those who gone before have hazarded their lives, some to return only part of who left, some to return covered by our nation’s flag.
Watching to see what we will do with the gift of liberty bought with their sweat, their tears, their blood.
Watching to see what manner of men will stand in the gap, carry the torch, and prevent those who would take from us what was so sorely purchased
These farmers
These pioneers
These migrants
These freed from bondage
These merchants and artisans
These warriors and soldiers
Who will stand?
Who will step forward?
Who will leave mother father sister brother in tears
Who will leave wife son daughter
Embracing as if for the last time
As for some it is
We must above all else honor these and offer our hand of gratitude and ensure the next generation knows the value of that for which these have paid and the terrible price