'Ode to Market Garden'

by Sam Rubens

Close your eyes for a moment and think way back,

Of the Sunday that Arnhem's bond should crack,

Remember the soldiers, those loyal men all,

Fighting for Arnhem, where many would fall.

 

Now open your eyes and scan the sky,

Where they came down like birds from on high,

Those red berets, so courageous, without fear,

Who strived for Arnhem and paid so dear.

 

Close your eyes once more and remember your gains,

For our bright world they went to great pains,

Let us all realise we're still free today,

Because they brought us freedom, they pointed the way.

 

Just fold your hands now, for Britons and Poles,

Beneath their white crosses and pray for their souls,

When your prayer is over, keep the memory alight,

Our city still lives because they did us right.  

 

By Sam Rubens of Arnhem, Holland


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