It is the soldier, not the reporter, Who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the poet, Who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the soldier, not the organizer, Who gave us the freedom to demonstrate

It is the soldier, Who salutes the flag, Who serves beneath the flag.

And whose coffin is draped by the flag, Who allows the protester to burn the flag.”

~Father Dennis Edward O’Brien, USMC

Photo Source:

http://findingmyinnercourage.wordpress.com/2013/11/11/distinguished-veterans/