I shot these images of Iowa's Veterans Cemetery, near Van Meter, during November 12 years ago --- when it was new. It's almost summer now, the grass is green, the trees have grown and the number of graves has multiplied.
But it seemed an appropriate place to visit, at least photographically, as Memorial Day approaches --- a day set aside to remember those who have died while in service to the nation.
And I could find nothing more appropriate to accompany the images than this small "Veterans Day" presentation put together during 2010 by Jason Eric Mumaw in memory of his late father, a Vietnam veteran. The song, "American Anthem," was written by Gene Scheer and performed by Norah Jones for Ken Burns' seven-part 2007 documentary, "The War." Here are the words:
The dream of a nation where freedom would endure
The work and prayers of centuries have brought us to this day
What shall be our legacy? What will our children say?
Let them say of me I was one who believed
In sharing the blessings I received.
Let me know in my heart when my days are through
America, America, I gave my best to you.
Each generation from the plains to distant shore
With the gifts they were given were determined to leave more.
Battles fought together, acts of conscience fought alone:
These are the seeds from which America has grown.
Let them say of me I was one who believed
In sharing the blessings that I received.
Let me know in my heart when my days are through
America, America, I gave my best to you.
For those who think they have nothing to share,
Who fear in their hearts there is no hero there.
Know each quiet act of dignity is that which fortifies
The soul of a nation that will never die.
Let them say of me I was one who believed
In sharing the blessings I received.
Let me know in my heart when my days are through
America, America, I gave my best to you.
We're still young as a nation and much remains to be seen; I've lost much of whatever faith I may have had in recent years --- but remain hopeful.
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