When I see a flag-draped box of wood

I remember all the brave ones who stood

guarding a lonely sentry post,

guarding what we love the most.

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That’s what I remember when I see a flag-draped box of wood.

When I see a flag folded in three

I remember, American’s died for me.

Some were sailors, some Marines,

some where airmen—all go-betweens.

That’s what I remember when I see a flag folded in three.

When I see a flag of red, white, and blue

I remember patriots true—

men who wore the blue and gray,

men who never buckle or sway.

That’s what I remember when I see a flag of red, white, and blue.

When I see a flag of stars and stripes

I remember it flies at half its heights.

Honoring heroes who gave their all;

honoring heroes who answered the call.

That’s what I remember when I see a flag of stars and stripes.

When I see a flag all battered and torn

I remember, ’tis for them we mourn—

for soldiers who bled and died,

for soldiers, America’s pride.

That’s what I remember when I see a flag all battered and torn.

“When I See a Flag-Draped Box of Wood,” copyright © 2013 by Derrick G. Jeter. All rights reserved worldwide. Use by permission.

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