For Those Who Stand, For Those Who Fell©️ by Felina Silver (copyright 2025) ❤️🤍💙

by Felina Silver — in honor of our veterans

Today, and every day, I honor the brave hearts who’ve served — those we’ve lost, those still serving, and those who carry their memory forward.

This poem comes from my heart — from the ache of loss, the pride of family, and the endless gratitude I feel for all who’ve given so much to keep us safe.

May we never forget their sacrifice, and may we one day live in a world where such courage is no longer required. 🇺🇸

I have walked the quiet fields of memory,
where echoes wear familiar names —
a brother’s laughter, a husband’s promise,
uncles and friends who never came home.

Each flag that waves reminds me still
of hearts that beat beneath its cloth,
of stories ended too soon,
and courage that costs more than words can hold.

I’ve watched my cousins, nephews, uncles march —
their backs straight, their spirits steady,
facing storms I pray they’ll outlast,
bearing duty’s weight so the rest of us may rest.

I thank them —
and all who’ve stood where danger breathes —
for giving pieces of their tomorrows
so ours could remain free.

But oh, how I wish there were no need —
no reason for sons to leave their mothers,
for love to wait by an empty chair,
for bravery to mean goodbye.

Still, while the world forgets too easily,
I will remember.
I will whisper their names in the quiet,
and lift my eyes to the dawn —
grateful, broken, proud.

May we learn, at last, to honor peace
as fiercely as they have fought for it.