The Flag

Some of you may remember Independence Day and Veteran's Day celebrations at our church.  On some of those celebrations we would sing the military anthems.  Each time we sang an anthem, a member of that military branch would walk up carrying their flag. 

A most memorable carrier was Mr. Bill Patterson.  He carried the United States Marine Flag each time.  In one case he had a procedure to his knee but felt recovered enough to walk down the aisle, up the steps and on stage carrying the flag. 

A few months ago, Mr. Patterson lost his battle with cancer.  As a result, I penned the following:

The Flag

He carried his flag,
He carried it proud
without a word,
He said it out loud.
"I'm a marine"
for my country I'll fight,
I'll lead the charge
whatever my plight.
On Veteran's day,
he'd raise the flag,
to the US Marines
It couldn't drag.
His limbs-they failed him
his arms not strong,
But he'd be singing
the Marine Corp song.
In his uniform-
so crisp and clean
Mr. Patterson with his flag
could be seen.
He held it high
as his body shook,
and everyone-
would turn to look.
There's never an "ex"
it's former marine,
The pride, the commitment
it could be seen.
He lifted his flag,
he lifted it high.
Until the Lord called him
home in the sky.
This former marine
we have to brag,
He's now with the Lord,
He's put down his flag.
(c) Barfield, 2013 The Flag-In Memory of Mr. Bill Patterson, USMC

Thank you to those who have served our country to ensure our freedoms.