Where were you
when the first sword was drawn?
By northern hills in icy dawn,
Past fields of wheat and barley wide,
Where sweeping rivers meet the tide?
Where were you
when the first sword was drawn?
Near fighting men with heart and brawn
Who eagle-like flew o’re the sea
To make their mark on history.
Where were you
when the first sword was drawn?
Holding needle to jupon,
Or painting on the wooden shield
that men of valor take to field.
Where were you
when the first sword was drawn?
Marching toward a foreign lawn
Holding rippling banner high
Red and white beneath blue sky.
Where were you
when the first sword was drawn?
Waiting for the denouement,
Breathless as each one proceeds
to match his chivalry with deeds.
Where were you
when the first sword was drawn?
As one we rallied, king and pawn,
to show the many gathered nations
a tale to tell for generations.