313/365: “We owe our World War veterans - and all our veterans - a debt we can never fully repay.” ~ Doc Hastings

2 more pictures above ! :)

I would also like to add this comment that was submitted by another very dear friend here on ipernity, Leapfrog (Art). It is so suitable that I will delete most of my description in favor of his perfect addition. Thanks Art. You rock. *big hugs*
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Lieutenant Colonel John Alexander McCrae, MD, was a Canadian Poet, Physician, Author, Artist and Soldier during World War I, and a Surgeon during the Second Battle of Ypres, in Belgium. During that time, a close friend and former student, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer of Ottawa was killed by an Enemy shell. The next day, sitting on the back of an ambulance, McCrae vented his anguish by composing a poem:

In Flanders Fields

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.

I remember those Women and Men that gave of their lives, so that we may all enjoy the freedoms and advantages we have today in our great country. I hope those Veterans who have and will return from our recent conflicts, equally enjoy the freedoms and advantages that they have provided.

Sincerely Art

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This is my shortened description:

I saw these beautiful, blazing red poppies this morning, shining in the bright sunlight. Still drizzled with morning dew, this blossom was just opening up and looked amazing! I still can't believe these flowers are STILL BLOOMING since I planted them in April and they began blooming in July...they just keep going and going. An incredible flower which I would recommend to anyone who wants a carefree, gorgeous flower that just keeps on giving! :)

Richard Norman "Doc" Hastings (born February 7, 1941) is the U.S. Representative for Washington's 4th congressional district, serving since 1995. He is a member of the Republican Party. The district includes most of central Washington and the southern half of Eastern Washington, including the Tri-Cities, Yakima, and Wenatchee. Wikipedia: Doc Hastings

Explored on Tuesday, November 12. Highest placement, page 7.