by Roving Reporter, ©2024
(Dec. 3, 2024) — “Justice for All” (2:24)
A long time ago in a faraway land a young man stood in a congregation of brave and courageous souls about to sing a song that was dear to their hearts, a song that brought memories of family, friends and peace. Unbeknownst to the weary men, they came together to share a resolve that no matter what they had to do to survive, if they died, at least they died within a brotherhood of men. They came together to recite words of the song, out loud, as if their hands were on the Good Book and their right hand was raised to God.
And so…
It was with great resolve that this song was sung as one, with voices strong and forceful, as if strength of volume would ward off a bad future. As this young man looked around him, he saw watered eyes, and wasn’t he surprised to find himself, figuratively thinking, on his knees praying to get out of this place.
As the song ended there was a noticeable collective sigh, as if a great draft swept through the congregation blowing away the hopes and dreams of fantasyland, only to be replaced with the stark reality of war, where each participant was but a small cog, realizing that the time of daydreaming was over until the next time the song was sung.
This is the song that was sung, that was sung at the end of every USO meeting, in a combat zone or otherwise, and the ending was always the same.
“Silent Night” (4:55)
Followed by…
“Taps” (2:43)