“Freedom Isn’t Free,” A Memorial Day Reminder

I found this poem, that reminded me of those who have served our country.  Some came back, some did not, and some came back wounded after fighting for our freedom.

After reading this poem, I found a picture of my nephew Jesse Cottle, a Marine who was given a hero’s welcome home.  Although Jesse said that he didn’t do anything that anyone else who served our country wouldn't do, he deserved all the love and support that was given to him that day.

In July of 2009, Jesse, an Explosives Ordnance Disposal technician, lost both of his legs in an I.E.D. explosion in Afghanistan. But nothing could break his spirit, saying that he was glad it was him instead of someone else on his team, or a child, or any other innocent civilian.

The poem “Freedom Isn’t Free” by Kelly Strong is a reminder of the countless sacrifices of our men and women who have, and currently are serving our country,  and their families anxiously waiting for their loved ones to come home.

May we all be reminded of these sacrifices, may we always  remember those who have given their all for our freedoms, and may we never forget that “freedom isn’t free.”

Freedom Isn’t Free by Kelly Strong

I heard the sound of TAPS one night,
When everything was still
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That TAPS had meant "Amen,"
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of a brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington.
No, freedom isn't free.