✨ As I watch my children carefully color a picture of an American flag, I’m reminded that the deepest feelings of gratitude are often the hardest to put into words. It’s a feeling that sits right in your heart, full and quiet.
😅 But how do we share that feeling with our families, especially our kids? Finding a poem that captures the pride we feel for our veterans without being too complex or somber can be a real challenge. I once tried to read a classic, complex war poem to my children (the goal). They were completely lost (the failure). That’s when I realized the most impactful poems for families have clear, powerful imagery and a simple, heartfelt message (the solution).
⭐ That’s why I’ve curated this special collection, drawing on my experience as a creative writing mentor for families. These poems are chosen to help families like ours connect with the spirit of the day. Let’s discover the words together that can help us honor our nation’s heroes. 🇺🇸
A Few of My Favorite Poems From This List ✍️
As a creative writing mentor, I’ve had the joy of discovering countless poems, but a few always stand out. Here are some that resonate deeply with me and my community, perfect for sharing with your family.
“In Flanders Fields” – John McCrae:
This timeless classic beautifully captures remembrance and sacrifice, making it a powerful opening favorite that speaks to the heart of Veterans Day.
“The Dash” – Linda Ellis:
I love this poem for its profound message about living a meaningful life. It resonates deeply with the sacrifices of veterans, prompting reflection on their legacy.
“A Veteran’s Prayer” – Unknown:
This prayer-like poem offers a unique, reflective tone. It’s perfect for quiet contemplation and expressing gratitude in a deeply personal way.
“Freedom’s Cost” – Unknown:
This poem is a top pick for its direct and impactful acknowledgment of the price of liberty, making it ideal for a heartfelt tribute that families can understand.
Poems of Courage & Sacrifice 🎖️
The stories of courage and sacrifice woven into the fabric of our nation’s history are profound. These poems offer a glimpse into the immense bravery and selflessness shown by our veterans, reminding us of the foundations upon which our freedoms stand.
“In Flanders Fields” – John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
~ John McCrae
This iconic poem, born from the battlefields of World War I, beautifully captures the poignant imagery of sacrifice and remembrance. It speaks directly to the fallen, emphasizing their enduring message about honoring those who gave their all. It’s a powerful poem for families to reflect on the true cost of peace.
💡 Poetic Insight: The vibrant red poppies growing in the disturbed earth of Flanders Fields became a lasting symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers, inspiring the tradition of wearing them on Veterans Day.
“The Soldier” – Rupert Brooke
If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
In that rich earth a richer dust concealed;
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware,
Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam,
A body of England’s, breathing English air,
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home.
And think, this heart, all evil shed away,
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given;
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day;
And laughter, learnt of friends; and gentleness,
In hearts at peace, under an English heaven.
~ Rupert Brooke
Rupert Brooke’s classic sonnet beautifully expresses the theme of patriotic devotion and the idea of a soldier’s ultimate sacrifice for their homeland. It speaks to a deep, almost spiritual connection between the soldier and the nation they serve, making it a profound choice for honoring those who gave everything.
“Dulce et Decorum Est” – Wilfred Owen
Bent double, like old beggars under sacks,
Knock-kneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge,
Till on the haunting flares we turned our backs,
And towards our distant rest began to trudge.
Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots,
But limped on, blood-shod. All went lame; all blind;
Drunk with fatigue; deaf even to the hoots
Of gas-shells dropping softly behind.
Gas! GAS! Quick, boys! – An ecstasy of fumbling,
Fitting the clumsy helmets just in time;
But someone still was yelling out and stumbling,
And flound’ring like a man in fire or lime. . .
Dim, through the misty panes and thick green light,
As under a green sea, I saw him drowning.
In all my dreams, before my helpless sight,
He plunges at me, guttering, choking, drowning.
If in some smothering dreams, you too could pace
Behind the wagon that we flung him in,
And watch the white eyes writhing in his face,
His hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin;
If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood
Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs,
Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud
Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues, –
My friend, you would not tell with such high zest
To children ardent for some desperate glory,
The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est
Pro patria mori.
~ Wilfred Owen
Wilfred Owen’s powerful anti-war poem, “Dulce et Decorum Est,” offers a stark and vital depiction of the horrors of war and the immense sacrifice soldiers endure. While challenging, its unflinching honesty is crucial for understanding the true cost of conflict and fostering a deep appreciation for those who faced such realities.
“The Charge of the Light Brigade” – Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Half a league, half a league,
Half a league onward,
All in the valley of Death
Rode the six hundred.
“Forward, the Light Brigade!
Charge for the guns!” he said.
Into the valley of Death
Rode the six hundred.
“Forward, the Light Brigade!”
Was there a man dismayed?
Not though the soldier knew
Someone had blundered.
Theirs not to make reply,
Theirs not to reason why,
Theirs but to do and die.
Into the valley of Death
Rode the six hundred.
Cannon to right of them,
Cannon to left of them,
Cannon in front of them
Volleyed and thundered;
Stormed at with shot and shell,
Boldly they rode and well,
Into the jaws of Death,
Into the mouth of hell
Rode the six hundred.
Flashed all their sabres bare,
Flashed as they turned in air
Sabring the gunners there,
Charging an army, while
All the world wondered.
Plunged in the battery-smoke
Right through the line they broke;
Cossack and Russian
Reeled from the sabre-stroke
Shattered and sundered.
Then they rode back, but not
Not the six hundred.
Cannon to right of them,
Cannon to left of them,
Cannon behind them
Volleyed and thundered;
Stormed at with shot and shell,
While horse and hero fell,
They that had fought so well
Came through the jaws of Death,
Back from the mouth of hell,
All that was left of them,
Left of six hundred.
When can their glory fade?
O the wild charge they made!
All the world wondered.
Honour the charge they made!
Honour the Light Brigade,
Noble six hundred!
~ Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s epic poem celebrates the incredible bravery and unwavering obedience of soldiers, even when facing overwhelming odds and tragic circumstances. It speaks to the profound discipline and valor inherent in military service, making it a powerful narrative for understanding courage.
“Freedom’s Cost” – Unknown
The flag waves high, a vibrant gleam,
A nation’s pride, a cherished dream.
But in its folds, a story lies,
Of courage born ‘neath stormy skies.
For freedom’s breath, a heavy price,
Paid by the brave, with sacrifice.
Through roaring fields and silent nights,
They stood for truth, they fought for rights.
So let us pause, with grateful heart,
For every hero, played their part.
Their sacrifice, a sacred trust,
Remembered always, in the dust.
~ By Nancy William
“Freedom’s Cost” is a heartfelt tribute that directly addresses the profound sacrifices made for liberty. It emphasizes the immense courage required to defend our nation’s ideals, making it an ideal poem for a solemn yet appreciative family discussion about the meaning of Veterans Day.
“The Price of Freedom” – Unknown
Freedom’s light, so clear and bright,
Was bought with day, and lost with night.
With weary steps and spirits bold,
A story of sacrifice, often untold.
They left their homes, their families dear,
To stand against a rising fear.
For every dawn, a battle won,
A price was paid, ’til setting sun.
So let us cherish, hold it fast,
The freedom that forever lasts.
And honor those, with silent plea,
Who paid the price for you and me.
~ By Nancy William
This poem focuses on the profound truth that freedom is not free, honoring those who paid the ultimate price. It’s a gentle yet impactful reminder of the sacrifices made, making it suitable for a solemn tribute or a quiet moment of reflection with your family.
“A Veteran’s Creed” – Unknown
I stand for freedom, true and bold,
A story in my heart, untold.
Of duty called, and courage shown,
For seeds of liberty, I’ve sown.
Through sun and storm, I held the line,
A sacred trust, forever mine.
With brothers, sisters, side by side,
For country’s honor, with great pride.
Though battles fade and years may turn,
The lessons of my service burn.
A Veteran’s Creed, I carry still,
To serve, protect, and do God’s will.
~ By Nancy William
This poem serves as a testament to the enduring values and principles that guide veterans. It highlights their unwavering commitment and courage, offering a window into the deep sense of duty and honor that defines their service. It’s a wonderful piece to share when discussing character and integrity.
Poems of Gratitude & Remembrance 🙏
Beyond the bravery, Veterans Day is a profound opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude and ensure that the sacrifices of our service members are never forgotten. These poems are crafted to help us convey that deep appreciation and keep their memories alive for generations.
“A Veteran’s Prayer” – Unknown
Lord, bless our veterans, strong and true,
Who answered duty’s call for You.
They stood for freedom, brave and grand,
Defending peace across the land.
Ease every burden, soothe each fear,
Hold their loved ones ever near.
For peace they sought, a world serene,
May grace surround them, fresh and green.
And in our hearts, let thanks reside,
For every hero, by our side.
May comfort find them, peace embrace,
Your loving kindness, by Your grace.
~ By Nancy William
This reflective poem is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and a prayer for peace and comfort for our veterans. Its gentle, reverent tone makes it ideal for a quiet moment of personal reflection, perhaps written inside a Veterans Day card or shared during a family prayer.
❤️ A Verse to Remember: “And in our hearts, let thanks reside, / For every hero, by our side.” This stanza beautifully encapsulates the spirit of gratitude we feel for our veterans.
“Thank You, Veterans” – Unknown
To every soldier, brave and true,
Our heartfelt thanks, we give to you.
For freedom’s flag, you bravely bore,
And kept our nation safe from war.
With courage strong and spirit bright,
You walked through darkness, sought the light.
For sacrifices, large and small,
You answered freedom’s urgent call.
So thank you, veterans, one and all,
May blessings on your pathways fall.
Our gratitude, a shining plea,
For all you’ve done for liberty.
~ By Nancy William
This straightforward poem offers a direct and sincere expression of thanks. Its clear message and accessible language make it ideal for sharing on social media, at a community event, or as a simple note of appreciation from a child.
“Remembering Our Heroes” – Unknown
The years may pass, the seasons turn,
But lessons learned, forever burn.
Our heroes’ names, etched in the sky,
Their noble deeds, will never die.
With every dawn, we must recall,
The brave who answered freedom’s call.
Their sacrifice, a guiding star,
No matter where our footsteps are.
So let us vow, to always keep,
The promises, while others sleep.
Remembering heroes, strong and bold,
Their timeless stories, to be told.
~ By Nancy William
This poem emphasizes the theme of active remembrance, urging us to ensure that the sacrifices of veterans are never forgotten. It’s a powerful piece for a memorial service or for an educational context, helping children understand the importance of history and gratitude.
“The Unsung Heroes” – Unknown
Not all in glory, loud and bright,
But in the quiet, stood their light.
The ones who served, behind the scenes,
Their silent strength, on battle greens.
The engineers, the healers kind,
The steadfast hearts, and brilliant mind.
Each vital part, a nation’s plea,
For freedom’s cause, for you and me.
So honor them, the quiet brave,
The gentle hands, the lives they save.
The unsung heroes, often missed,
Forever cherished, truly blessed.
~ By Nancy William
This poem specifically honors the often-overlooked aspects of military service and the quiet strength of veterans. It emphasizes a message of deep appreciation for all roles played in defense of our nation, making it a thoughtful poem to share with families to broaden their understanding of service.
“To Our Veterans” – Unknown
From every corner, far and wide,
Our nation’s heart, with grateful pride,
Reaches out to you today,
To thank you for your valiant way.
Through trials faced and battles won,
Your sacred duty, bravely done.
For peace you fought, for liberty,
A shining light for all to see.
So to our veterans, true and bold,
A story of courage, to be told.
Our deepest thanks, from every soul,
You made our country strong and whole.
~ By Nancy William
This poem expresses collective gratitude from a nation, highlighting the unity in appreciation for service. It’s a straightforward and powerful message, perfect for a community gathering or a public expression of thanks from families.
“A Grateful Nation” – Unknown
A grateful nation stands today,
To honor those who led the way.
With selfless hearts and spirits grand,
They shaped the future of our land.
From every ocean, every shore,
Their dedication, we adore.
For freedom’s song, they bravely fought,
A legacy, profoundly wrought.
So let our voices softly rise,
Beneath these clear and open skies.
A grateful nation, strong and free,
Remembers them, eternally.
~ By Nancy William
This poem focuses on the theme of national pride and the collective debt of gratitude owed to veterans. Its broad appeal makes it suitable for official tributes, public addresses, or as a unifying message within families during Veterans Day ceremonies.
“Their Legacy Lives On” – Unknown
The echoes of their valiant stride,
In every freedom, deep inside.
Though years may pass, and seasons turn,
Their sacred legacy will burn.
In stories told, in flags unfurled,
They left their mark upon the world.
A better future, strong and bright,
Guided by their shining light.
So let us live, with purpose true,
The dreams they fought to see come through.
Their legacy lives on and on,
From dusk of night to golden dawn.
~ By Nancy William
This poem speaks to the lasting impact of veterans’ service and how their contributions continue to shape the present and future. It’s an inspiring piece for families, encouraging them to reflect on how veterans’ sacrifices have benefited their lives and the nation.
Uplifting & Hopeful Tributes ✨
While we remember the sacrifices, Veterans Day is also a time for hope, for celebrating the enduring spirit of service, and for looking forward to a peaceful future. These poems offer uplifting messages, perfect for inspiring reflection and sharing with your family.
“The Dash” – Linda Ellis
I read of a man who stood to speak
at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
from the beginning…to the end.
He noted that first came the date of birth
and spoke the following date with tears,
but he said what mattered most of all
was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time
that she spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved her
know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not how much we own,
the cars…the house…the cash.
What matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard;
Are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left
that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough
to consider what’s true and real,
and always try to understand
the way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger,
and show appreciation more,
and love the people in our lives
like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect,
and more often wear a smile,
remembering that this special dash
might only last a little while.
So when your eulogy’s being read,
with your life’s actions to rehash,
would you be proud of the things they say
about how you spent your dash?
~ Linda Ellis
Linda Ellis’s powerful poem, “The Dash,” speaks to living a life of purpose and making the most of the time we have. Though not explicitly military, its message deeply resonates with the meaningful lives and legacies of veterans, highlighting the profound impact they have during their “dash.” It’s wonderful for personal reflection or motivational sharing within your family. #LiveYourDash #VeteransLegacy
✍️ Poet’s Corner: The “dash” is a powerful metaphor for the entirety of a person’s life between birth and death. It encourages us to reflect on the quality and impact of those years, much like the lasting contributions of our veterans.
“America the Beautiful” – Katharine Lee Bates (excerpt)
O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
O beautiful for pilgrim feet,
Whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!
God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!
~ Katharine Lee Bates
Using this beloved excerpt from Katharine Lee Bates’s “America the Beautiful” frames it as a poem that celebrates the beauty and ideals of the nation our veterans protect. It’s a wonderful choice for a broad, uplifting message of patriotism and gratitude, perfect for sharing with children. #AmericaTheBeautiful #PatrioticPoetry
“The Road Not Taken” – Robert Frost (interpreted for service)
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
~ Robert Frost
Robert Frost’s classic, “The Road Not Taken,” can be interpreted to beautifully connect the choice of “the road less traveled” to the unique and often challenging path of military service. It speaks to individuality, courage, and the profound impact of choosing a life dedicated to something greater than oneself. It’s a thoughtful poem for discussing life choices and their significance. #ChooseYourPath #ServiceAndSacrifice
“Hope for Tomorrow” – Unknown
Though shadows fall and conflicts cease,
We look ahead, for lasting peace.
The veteran’s dream, a world so bright,
Where children play in morning light.
Their sacrifice, a guiding hand,
Has built the future of our land.
With every dawn, a promise new,
For peace and justice, strong and true.
So let us build, with hearts entwined,
The hopeful future they defined.
And honor them, with every stride,
For peace on earth, with grateful pride.
~ By Nancy William
This poem looks forward with optimism, expressing hope for peace and a brighter future that stands on the strong foundations laid by our veterans. It’s a wonderful piece to share with families, inspiring them to contribute to a world worthy of the sacrifices made. #HopeForPeace #FutureGenerations
“The Veteran’s Spirit” – Unknown
A spirit forged in fire and might,
Still shines within, a guiding light.
The veteran’s heart, with wisdom deep,
The promises, they bravely keep.
Through changing times, their strength endures,
A quiet power that reassures.
With dignity and grace they stand,
The true protectors of our land.
So let us learn from all they’ve seen,
The vibrant lessons, ever keen.
The veteran’s spirit, strong and free,
A beacon for eternity.
~ By Nancy William
This poem focuses on the enduring spirit, resilience, and wisdom that veterans carry. It presents an uplifting tribute to their profound character, making it an excellent choice for celebrating the inner strength and lasting impact of those who served. #VeteranSpirit #Resilience
“A Beacon of Light” – Unknown
In darkest hours, when shadows loom,
They chased away the gathering gloom.
Our veterans, with hearts so true,
A beacon shining, strong and new.
Their sacrifice, a guiding ray,
Illuminating freedom’s way.
For future’s path, they paved with grace,
Leaving a brighter, safer place.
So let their light inspire us all,
To answer freedom’s gentle call.
A beacon of hope, for all to see,
Our veterans, for eternity.
~ By Nancy William
This poem portrays veterans as guiding lights and symbols of strength and hope for the nation. It’s a beautifully uplifting piece that encourages us to find inspiration in their service and resilience, ideal for sharing to motivate and inspire others. #BeaconOfHope #VeteransInspire
“Our Enduring Thanks” – Unknown
The years may turn, the seasons fade,
But thanks for you will not be swayed.
Our enduring gratitude, sincere,
For every sacrifice, year by year.
Through peace and struggle, calm and strife,
You guarded freedom, gave your life.
A solemn promise, we now make,
Your contributions, for freedom’s sake.
So let our voices, clear and bold,
A story of thanks, forever told.
Our enduring thanks, from sea to sea,
For all you’ve given, valiantly.
~ By Nancy William
This poem emphasizes the perpetual nature of gratitude for veterans’ service, ensuring that their contributions are always remembered and honored. It’s a comforting message for veterans and their families, reinforcing that their efforts are never forgotten. #EnduringThanks #AlwaysRemember
“The Promise of Peace” – Unknown
A whisper soft, upon the breeze,
The promise of a world at ease.
For this, they served, with hearts so true,
A peaceful sky, forever new.
Through trials deep and battles vast,
They fought for peace, designed to last.
A brighter dawn, a gentle hand,
For every child, across the land.
So let us hold that vision dear,
And banish every doubt and fear.
The promise of peace, they helped us weave,
A legacy of hope, we now believe.
~ By Nancy William
This poem reflects on the ultimate goal of service – peace – and expresses hope for a world where such sacrifices are no longer necessary, while profoundly honoring those who made them. It’s a beautiful message for families to share, fostering discussions about peace and gratitude. #PromiseOfPeace #VeteransForPeace
Your Questions Answered 🤔
Q: What are the best ways to share these poems, especially with family and children?
A: Beyond simply reading them aloud, consider including these poems in handmade cards for veterans, using them as prompts for family discussions on gratitude, or even having children copy their favorite lines into a journal. As a creative writing mentor, I’ve found that engaging with the words in a personal way deepens the impact.
Q: Is it appropriate to personalize these poems, or should I share them exactly as written?
A: For classic, attributed poems like “In Flanders Fields,” it’s best to share them as written to preserve their original meaning and authorship. However, for the “Unknown” poems, feel free to adapt a line or two to make them even more personal to your family’s message of thanks. The most important thing is the heartfelt sentiment.
Q: Beyond sharing poems, what are other meaningful ways to honor veterans on Veterans Day?
A: There are many wonderful ways! Families can volunteer at a local veterans’ organization, write letters of thanks, visit a veterans’ memorial, or simply take time to listen to a veteran’s story. The key is to show genuine appreciation and remember their service.
As we conclude this journey through inspiring verses, I hope you feel equipped with the perfect words to honor the veterans in your life. Poetry has a unique power to connect our hearts, express our deepest gratitude, and ensure that the sacrifices made for our freedom are never forgotten.
Which of these inspirational poems will you be sharing to honor a veteran this Veterans Day? Let us know in the comments below!
