Robert Heichberger in 1953.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 is Veterans Day … and my column today is in the form of a poem. In this poem, I wish to pay tribute to the men and women who have served, as well as those who are currently serving in the Armed Forces of our great Nation.

I am a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, and the 245th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps is Nov. 10. And further, in light of the many catastrophic events (floods, fire, wind and snow storms, hurricanes, and mud slides, accidents, and the like), I wish also to salute the many First Responders who give of themselves for the safety and assistance of others. And so, a special tribute to the armed forces, our Veterans and to the first responders all who have and are giving so valiantly in the past and in the present. “We salute and pay tribute to ALL for their service.”

TAKING TIME TO REMEMBER

by Robert L. Heichberger

Taking time to remember the fearless,

Those who have served and are serving with valor.

To the Armed Forces and those great First Responders

We thank them with appreciative candor.

They are proud to be serving our Country

The land of the brave and the free.

The land of hope, and of courage

With liberty and freedom for you and for me.

They are proud to stand for our nation

In times of terror and strife.

And to walk the road with virtuous valor

With dignity — and valuing life.

What a tribute to the many who protect us

Who fearlessly respond to the call

They serve with justice and commitment

With valiant service to the needs of us all

They are proud to stand for our Country

To serve for the things that are right

To give of themselves, and for others

And to strive with true courage, and might.

They are proud to be of service to our Country

It is a Nation of people, who are just

Who stand for the rights of all others

In a land of humility and trust.

They are proud to protect our Country

And to stand for a cause that is right

And to give humbly for the safety of others

And to protect sovereignty with all of their might

We are proud to pay tribute to those serving—

Armed Forces and First Responders by our side.

They stand for the freedom and safety of people

With unflinching courage and virtuous pride!

Robert Heichberger is a Gowanda resident and SUNY Fredonia professor emeritus.