One Nation Under God
Message by Tim Johnson
Poem by Roger Robicheau
THEME: The meaning of Memorial Day and recognizing that our country is "One Nation-Under God."
PROMPTS: Bring some symbol of our military and the holiday such as hats or gear, a US flag, or photos of military cemetaries.
POEM: "One Nation Under God"
One Nation Under God we live
Think about all some had to give
We the people share freedom's life
In a world of ever present strife
Be grateful to those who keep this true
Warriors of our red, white, and blue
They're trained by those of great skill
Honed to perform, so strong their will
They show what love is all about
They'll fight for us, there is no doubt
Defending bravely what we are
No holding back each heartfelt star
Highly praise these men and women
Giving thanks time and again
Those in uniform will always be
The golden pride of this country
MESSAGE: Each spring in May our country celebrates and honors the men and women who have served in the military, expecially those who have given their lives. Memorial was first observed way back in 1868 just after the Civil War, when General John Logan issued a proclamation to honor the war dead. Over 20,000 graves for soliders who died were decorated, both members of the Union and Confederacy.
After the "war to end all wars," World War I, the day became one to celebrate all servicemen and women, not just those who died. then in 1971, the United States government declared Memorial Day a national holiday and set the last Monday in May as the date for each year.
Do you have someone in your family who was in the military, the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, or Marines? How about a friend or someone you know? (Wait for answers. Using a child's answer or an example of your own, discuss what they had to give up to be in the military.)
I would like to share a poem by Roger Robicheau, that reminds us we are a country that serves God. We are a nation under God. (Read poem and then dismiss children.)