May 2003 Newsletter, Disabled American Veterans, Department of New York

Northport VAMC celebrated its 75th Anniversary on May 15th, 2003. This event represented a segment of American history concerning disabled veterans. The event was remarkable for its bookends. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by a 105 year old WWI veteran, and was closed by an 11 year old singing his love for America with the clarion like voice of an angel. Stacked in between were some noteworthy expressions of deeds well done and messages of support for the future.

One of the best expressions of reflections and introspection is Col. Paul Swerdlow's (Ret.) as set forth in this poem:

I am a veteran
I shivered that cold winter in Valley Forge
And rejoiced at the glorious surrender at Yorktown.
I wept at the flames that engulfed Washington
And said "never again."
I wore blue and bled red.
I wore gray and bled red.
The blood I spilled was to reunite a nation
Of the people, by the people and for the people
I am a veteran.

I was at Little Big Horn and I prayed;
I was at Wounded Knee and I prayed;
I prayed that one day the old Americans
And the new Americans would be one people.
I was there to charge up the hill at San Juan;
Knowing that my country was emerging
Beyond its borders.
I was prepared to make the world safe for democracy.
Young and idealistic,
I came to France
To turn back the hordes in this war to end all wars.
I am a veteran.

It was with disbelief that I became
A part of the day which will live in infamy.
Once more I said goodbye to those I loved
To protect my country.
Across the vast desert I met the enemy.
I met him on island after island.
I kept my promise to return.
I met him on the beaches of Normandy.
I repelled him from the gates of Bastogne.
I freed thousands from the shadow of death.
I am a veteran.

A small nation cried out for help
And I came because others had been there for me.
A nation was saved.
I felt the agony of defeat in the jungles of a distant land.
But I held my head high
When another people cried out,
I again put on my uniform to save them from tyranny.
Today I remain ready to pledge my life.
My property, my sacred honor.
Until there will be peace and freedom on earth
For everyone. everywhere.

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