Brothers

"In memory and honor of all those who now serve and those who have gone before"

I must tell you I am a most fortunate man because I have two sons who are both Marines and I hear from them often. It is a great joy to be able to talk with them, to hear the sound of their voices, to listen to their words and thoughts, to “see” the kind of men they have become. It is my younger son, Stephen, who is more available and I talk with more frequently.

 

Nearly four years ago he told me that he had volunteered to go to Iraq. Can you imagine the fear I felt? We talked and talked as often as possible over the course of the next few weeks. There was one question that I asked each time. “Why?” His reply was always the same “because my “brothers” are there and I need to be there for them.”

 

Those who have served in war understand the term and meaning of “brother” very well. For those who have never served the term “brother” is one of the most powerful concepts for a combat soldier. A “brother” is one that fights beside you. A “brother” is one has your “back”. A “brother” is one who would die for you. There is no greater trust than the bond that is formed between combat soldiers.

 

Fortunately because of his particular duties he has not been allowed to go and that still bothers him. Like those so many others who are stationed safely here he does whatever he can for those going, are already there, and especially those returning.

 

Every single time I think of these conversations a song immediately comes to mind that explains this bond much better than my poor words could. At the time this song first came out the meaning was intended to be much more universal than how I apply it here but it perfectly fits what the men and women of our combat military share.

 

 

“The road is long
With many a winding turn
That leads us to who knows where,
Who knows when
But I'm strong,
Strong enough to carry him.
He ain't heavy, he's my brother.

So on we go.
His welfare is my concern.
No burden is he to bear,
We'll get there.
For I know
He would not encumber me
He ain't heavy, he's my brother.

If I'm laden at all,
I'm laden with sadness
That everyone's heart
Isn't filled with the gladness
Of love for one another.

It's a long, long road
From which there is no return.
While we're on the way to there,
Why not share?
And the load
Doesn't weigh me down at all.
He ain't heavy, he's my brother.

He's my brother.
He ain't heavy, he's my brother...”

 

 

Though those who serve today are not of my generation or of my war, I am honored to claim each and every single one of them as a “brother.”

 

“They ain’t heavy, they are my brothers”

In 1924, the first editor of Kiwanis Magazine, Roe Fulkerson, published a column carrying the title "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother". Dated September 1924, the article speaks of Fulkerson's inspiring encounter with "a spindly and physically weak lad" carrying a baby and "staggering towards a neighboring park".

" 'Pretty big load for such a small kid' I said as I met him. 'Why, mister,' he smiled, 'He ain't heavy; he's my brother.' "

The first-released and best-known version of this song was recorded by The Hollies in 1969. One of the group's biggest hits, it became one of the most defining and enduring tunes of that era. He Ain't Heavy was composed by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell. The original recording featured Elton John on piano and lead singer Allan Clark.

 

This Memorial Day on May 26^th, if you support them, if you care for them, show it. Do something to let them know….a letter, a card, a phone call…..anything! Visit a soldier, young or old it matters not if you personally know them just a simple “thank you” will do.

 

Honor those who have fallen! Attend a service at a military cemetery.

 

Reviews

[Winter McPherson]

What a wonderful tribute and reminder! As a child I first fell in love with that song when Olivia-Newton-John redid it on one of her albums. Thanks for the history behind it. Very interesting. I love finding out where songs got their start. You've really made all of us think here about Memorial Day as more then just a weekend getaway like its become. Thank you for that.

[Wildfleour]

Excellent, Bob. Sorry it escaped me these past few days.

[Chistie]

I am so very glad that your sons have the courage to fight for our safety and way of life. Please Thank them from me to them and anyone else who will listen. I lit a candle on Memorial Day, that was all i could really do, kids and family stuff. Good job and thank you for sharing!!!

[Ron B]

Bravo. I really enjoyed it.

[WritefromtheHeart]

What a wonderful tribute and yes, there is no more appropriate song than that one. Blessings to you Shadow Wolf for helping us remember them on this particular holiday.

[Staci Brown]

A great piece here hon. A good reminder for everyone! Well done.

Faerie Blessings

--faerie whisper (breaking the silence...)

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You are the very best! So is this.