For some reason, many people conflate Veterans Day with Memorial Day. Veterans Day is a day to thank all military veterans for their service. Memorial Day is a day to remember those who gave their lives in the defense of their country.

While doing research for this post, I came across the following on You Tube. “The Blue and The Gray” was written in 1867 by Francis Miles Finch. The recording gives the history of what inspired Finch to write it, followed by a recitation of the poem. This is from 1912, so it’s a bit scratchy, but it’s clear nonetheless.

There are other poems, music, and even videos in tribute to soldiers who have died, but this one is specific to the holiday and America’s deadliest war.

I have nothing to add.