VALLEY FORGE The lump first born within my breast, From feelings I can not disguise, Recalling those who gave their best, Now bringing tears up to my eyes. I gaze across this hallowed ground, Where men, tho lamed, by winter's blow, Held fast, and strove, and finally found, The strength to vanquish our great foe. Huddled, fearful, ill equipped, In makeshift shelters spread about, Yet from some well of courage sipped, The will to stay despite their doubt. George the Third, though far away, Sent troops and minions over here, To battle us and save the day, For Britain's rule he held so dear. Another George came to our aid, And with his men in seventy eight, Held out until they fought and paid, The price for a new sovereign state. Now monuments and graceful lawn, Commemorate their awesome deed. All those soldiers now long gone, Sacrificed, now we are freed. ©2008 by Wayne Hepburn - All Rights Reserved [ Notes: Photo digitally modified from image at www.nps.gov/vafo. Author lived near enough to park to see it daily and gratefully spent many hours there. ]