That’s the one I recite now, instead of the original version. It has more meaning, especially in a war torn world, I think. Not to mention, that is how a United States soldier views himself, as a guardian, a protector. Not a hostile war machine bent on the destruction and death and carnage of all he purveys. I think, with some of the childish pranks that have been blown out of proportion, much of the world has forgotten about the average, everyday soldier putting his or her life on the line every day so that children and mothers and fathers can sleep safe and secure in their homes.
Regardless of your nation of origin, the poem rings true. Whether you are American, Canadian, English, Russian, German. You can swamp the names and places and uniform, but the story is picture is true, somewhere in your recent past.
And that’s why, for the 2nd Christmas now, I’ve posted it on the forums. It’s meaningful to many.