Pope Benedict XVI Blog

Bivouac of the Dead: a Memorial Day tribute

Thanks for this poem of Theodore O'Hara referenced today from "Diary of a Suburban Priest".

May 30, 2005

Bivouac Of The Dead
By Theodore O'Hara

(Written in memory of the Kentucky troops killed in the Mexican War - 1847)
Portions Of This Haunting Poem Are Inscribed On Placards
Throughout Arlington, As Well as On The McClellan Gate

The muffled drum's sad roll has beat
The soldier's last tattoo;
No more on Life's parade shall meet
That brave and fallen few.
On fame's eternal camping ground
Their silent tents to spread,
And glory guards, with solemn round
The bivouac of the dead.

No rumor of the foe's advance
Now swells upon the wind;
Nor troubled thought at midnight haunts
Of loved ones left behind;
No vision of the morrow's strife
The warrior's dreams alarms;
No braying horn or screaming fife
At dawn shall call to arms.

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posted by Dr. Denice Hanley, DPM, M.Div. @ 4:40 PM