Reviews from

When I Hear the Anthem Play

A tribute to all those who died for our freedom

24 total reviews 
Comment from Julie Lau
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Your poem is well-written, scans and rhymes well, and contains an important message - that it is necessary for soldiers to go into danger, because that is their job, and they believe in it. I hope you do well in the contest.

 Comment Written 08-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you very much, Julie, for your kind review and thoughtful review.
Comment from Pam (respa)
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

-Thanks for sharing the image and the poem.
-It is beautifully written and I can feel the
pain expressed in it as well as the pride
you came to have in your dad and others
who gave of themselves so we can be free.
-You tell a very good story with effective imagery and rhyme,
and it touched my heart.
-I am sorry you lost your father, and being so young,
it had to be difficult.
-My dad was in the Air Force and served during the Korean War.
He worked on the airplanes which were based in Japan. I was
two years old when he left so I don't remember it, but he
told me later that it was the hardest thing he ever had to do was leave.
-Like you, the National Anthem means a lot to me, and I always sing
it if at a ballgame or other venue.
-I can understand your feelings of bitterness and am glad that
as years passed by you remember all the good that he did.
-This is an outstanding poem; good luck in the contest and
thanks to your dad for his service.

 Comment Written 08-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you so much for your very kind and thoughtful 6-star review, Pam. It means a lot to me.
reply by Pam (respa) on 08-May-2023
    You are very welcome. I look forward to seeing who wrote this.
Comment from Ben Colder
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

We who served for the cause understand this poem. It is all part of living and giving to the next generation. The poet understands the importance.
Freedom is always expensive, but worth the price.

 Comment Written 08-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you so much for your very kind 6-star review and for your service to the country, Ben.
Comment from Roxanna Andrews
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

I too want to thank all service men who gave so much. Even if they come home they are not the same, war is horrible but sadly too often necessary. My cousin was in Vietnam and he to this day has very bad PTSD. We don't do enough for our men who give so much. Angers me. Anyone who doesn't respect them, our flag and country are most welcome to live else where. Really well done poem, saw no errors.

 Comment Written 08-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you for sharing your experience about your cousin and for this wonderful review. My best wishes for your cousin.
Comment from GWHARGIS
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

This made me cry. And I'm not a crier. But I was raised in a military family. Uncles, father, brother and son. I've seen the soldiers change but the sacrifice is still the same. This was an absolute beautiful poem. Thank you for posting. Based on true life? Gretchen

 Comment Written 07-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you, Gretchen, for your wonderful review and the granting of 6 stars. I'm glad you found it touching.
Comment from Paul McFarland
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

A really good Memorial Day poem. I'm assuming this true. If not, then you have done an effective job of writing. You have convincingly portrayed the thoughts of a son who has lost his dad in war.

 Comment Written 07-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you very much for your wonderful review, Paul.
Comment from ~Dovey
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Hello Poet -

This one is a complete story in a poem that tugs on the heartstrings.

I am sure it will resonate for many who are truly appreciative of your father's service and sorry for your loss. Your family made the ultimate sacrifice and you forever have our gratitude.

Good luck.

Kim

 Comment Written 07-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you for your very kind review, Kim. It's very much appreciated.
Comment from Pearl Edwards
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

This was a beautiful read, it gave me goosebumps as I read this from the POV of a child of a veteran who gave his all. Well done, a wonderful tribute, and good luck in the contest.
Cheers

 Comment Written 07-May-2023


reply by the author on 08-May-2023
    Thank you very much for your very kind and touching review, Pearl. And thank you for the 6 stars too.
Comment from Anne Johnston
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This is a beautiful poem to commemorate Memorial Day. The rhyming is great and it flows smoothly. It tells a sad but true story of what so many in our countries have faced in order to ensure our freedom.

 Comment Written 07-May-2023


reply by the author on 07-May-2023
    Thank you very much for your lovely review, Anne.
reply by Anne Johnston on 07-May-2023
    You are very welcome
Comment from lancellot
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This is a deep and very moving poem. It reminds us of the sacrifices many people involved in the military and those who are left home to worry have given to the people not only of this country but others.

Ver well crafted entry.

 Comment Written 07-May-2023


reply by the author on 07-May-2023
    Thank you for your thoughtful review. I really appreciate it.