MILITARY: Poem "They Stand", for all military, all counties, all states, worldwide

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Transcribed by: twotrees@hal-pc.org
Date: Jan 2001
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                       THEY STAND
                    (Author Unknown)

In small Southern towns and large, they stand.  On the square by the courthouse, in a park, 
or in a lonesome field, they stand.

Some large and ornate, others more the image of the hard times in which they were erected 
than the soldiers they honor.  Reminders of glorious deeds and sacrifices which often go 
beyond our ability to comprehend. They are silent, proud and patient.  Waiting for the day 
when again they will be objects of affection, attention and care.

They represent the heroes of the South - those who fought, those who died, and those who 
refuse to let the memory of our history die. They are modest, but essential reminders of a 
people who sacrificed everything.  They are a link, however tenuous, to our past.

Often names of the dead are etched in stone. They are indeed heroes, but there are so many 
more whose names do not appear.  Those who fought and lived with the terrible images of war. 
Those who tried to keep a place where tired soldiers could once again become husbands
and fathers. Those who lost husbands and brothers and fathers and sons. Those who were 
forced to watch as their country was destroyed town by town and farm by farm. Those who 
worked so hard to see that we could not forget.

Stop a moment, bow your head and honor them.  Never let their battles be forgotten; never 
let their story be forgotten; never let their banners be dishonored; never let their lives 
be cause for shame.

They stand; though some would tear them down.

They stand; though many turn their backs.

They stand; thank God, they stand.


Donated by Porter Harned
transcribed by Walter E. Welsh