ON THE BEACH OF NORMANDY

ON THE BEACH OF NORMANDY

I stood on the Beach of Normandy
And looked as far as eye could see,
And knew that here thousands had died
With no place near where they could hide.

The battles were fierce, the days wore on;
It seemed to many a hope forlorn.
But triumph they did, they gained the ground,
And they gave freedom to those around.

De Gaulle had lied and even yelped,
“We did it alone with no one’s help!”
But those of Normandy aren’t aloof,
And readily say, “We know the truth!”

The graves are there for all to see,
Thousands of them beside the sea.
The gravesites are immaculately kept,
And loved ones often have come and wept.

Tell me not of America’s faults,
‘Till you her glories have thoroughly taught!
For we gave, we prayed, and thousands died,
So others might live on victory’s side!

How often Belgians whom I met,
Would thank me and tell me of their debt,
To Americans who fought victoriously,
That they might live in liberty!

Stand up, America, and let’s be proud!
Shout freedom’s song both clear and loud!
Don’t hang your head, there’s naught to shame!
We fought and won; we’re due the fame!

by Rev. Curtis Dean
May 17, 2009 (May be used freely
as long as my name is listed as the author.)
***
See photo by Luke M. Curley at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:WW2_Normandy_American_Cemetery_Rain.JPG