To live without the freedom

To express your thoughts would be

An awful state of being

And a much worse destiny.

So child, I’m in the Army.

I’m a Chaplain for our men.

I’ve been in two world wars

And I’d do it once again.

My duty to America

I do for you with love.

And hope to keep your freedom

With the help from God above."

The Colonel has been buried,

But his truth marches on.

It lives within the hearts

Of every generation born.

If daddy were alive today,
I’d thank him, tho then I cried.

I’d kiss his face with tender love.

I’d hold his hand with pride.

I’ve lived the life of freedom

For which men gave their own.

I know I’m ever thankful

That America’s my home.

So when I hear opinions

To which I disagree,

I remember, that’s the freedom,

Men fought for, for you and me.

And even though I may not like

The things you have to say,

I’ll stand up for your right

To live the American Way.