As someone who is against war it is ironic that my eldest son in in the British Army - his choice not mine. Hes on a six month detachment abroad... not Afghanistan or Iraq thank goodness. No amount of jingoistic songs & ditties are going to impress the serving soldier of today. They like their own modern music, not songs from past wars, and hymns. If they are anything like my lad they are very cynical and would just take the michael... and get on with the job in hand. Yes the sentiments of posted songs are very strong... the Arlo Guthrie one is particularly apt. Forgotten by governments once they are dead or injured. My choice of song for my son is:- AN IRISH BLESSING, Ralph McTell How my life is changing now My young ones start to leave their home I wish that their uncertain road Was one that I could tread with them As when I walked them home from school Or safely caught them when they fell Or chase the demons from their dreams With jokes and stories that I could tell. May the road rise with you And the wind be at your back Go raibh an ghaoth I goónai ar do chûl Go n-éiri and bóthar leat. And now it's me who has to learn To let you make your way alone To try not to direct each turn Your triumphs and mistakes your own. Your path will different be to mine No tricks of my trade no use to you To others and yourself be kind Your suffering would hurt me too. Chorus I hear the calling of your heart I see in your eyes that you know To cherish is the easy part The hardest task is letting go So let me see you to the corner Let me watch you down the street May my love be your protector And walk with you till next we meet. May the road rise with you And the wind be at your back Go raibh an ghaoth I goónai ar do chûl Go n-éiri and bóthar leat. fliss no1 son and Ralph share the same birthday - Dec 3rd. Happy birthday both of you.
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