Flanders Field Poem by McCrae - Relevant Today

John McCrae, 1872-1918, wrote a poem called "In Flanders Fields." American composer Charles Ives set it to music in 1919. By 2009, I hope to record a symphonic choral version of this beautiful tribute to soldiers who risk their lives for our freedom.

Friends, please read this poem by John McRae and let your soul shiver to think of the noble sacrifice of those who render military service to defend and protect ideals of liberty and freedom for all.

"In Flanders fields the poppies blow, between the crosses, row on row -- that mark our place; and in the sky the larks still bravely singing fly, scarce heard amidst the guns below. We are the dead. Short days ago we lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, loved and were loved, and now we lie in Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe! To you from falling hands we throw, we throw the torch. Be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die we shall not sleep though poppies grow in Flanders fields."

Let us all in our own ways take up the torch of liberty and honor those who have fallen for us. We will never forget you!

Alexandra Lajoux