Quotations
"Let those who come after see to it that they have not died in vain"
From a certificate sent to all bereaved families under the George V cipher and coat of arms.
*All these have been used on war memorials in our region. Some were ad hoc, made up specially for the purpose. Others are quotations from other sources, old and new. We try to identify where they came from, but some of them have defeated us.
If you are familiar with the source of a quotation or inscription that we have not yet been able to identify, please contact us with the details by e-Mail to [email protected] Sources that have been identified are shown below the quotation concerned.
The words "Nothing else known" means that, although we have found the author, we know nothing of the work in which the quotation appears. Can you help?
If you are familiar with the source of a quotation or inscription that we have not yet been able to identify, please contact us with the details by e-Mail to [email protected] Sources that have been identified are shown below the quotation concerned.
The words "Nothing else known" means that, although we have found the author, we know nothing of the work in which the quotation appears. Can you help?
A good life hath but a few days but a good name endureth for ever.
Apocrypha. Ecclesiasticus 41 verse 13
Apocrypha. Ecclesiasticus 41 verse 13
A good life is often too short.
Possibly a variation on Apocrypha: Ecclesiasticus 41 verse 13”A good life hath but a few days, but a good name endureth for ever”.
Possibly a variation on Apocrypha: Ecclesiasticus 41 verse 13”A good life hath but a few days, but a good name endureth for ever”.
A noble and willing sacrifice wholly acceptable into God.
Based on Romans 12 v 1
Based on Romans 12 v 1
Above the graves of heroes the wooden crosses grow,
Who shall no more see Durham, nor any place they know,
Where fell tops face the morning and great winds blow;
Who loving as none other the land that is their mother,
Unfaltering renounced her because they loved her so
Poem by W.N. Hodgson.
Who shall no more see Durham, nor any place they know,
Where fell tops face the morning and great winds blow;
Who loving as none other the land that is their mother,
Unfaltering renounced her because they loved her so
Poem by W.N. Hodgson.
All it takes for evil to succeed is that a few good men do nothing.
Edmund Burke (1729-1797) ("All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing").
Edmund Burke (1729-1797) ("All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing").
All they had they gave
Second verse of Hymn “O Valiant hearts, who to your glory came” Songs of Praise No. 293. J.S. Arkwright (1872-1954)
All you had hoped for, all you had, you gave
To save mankind, yourselves you scorned to save.
Also used by Rudyard Kipling in a poem beginning “ The King went forth on Pilgrimage”
“All that they had they gave – they gave;
And they shall not return,
For these are those that have no grave
Where any heart may mourn.”
Second verse of Hymn “O Valiant hearts, who to your glory came” Songs of Praise No. 293. J.S. Arkwright (1872-1954)
All you had hoped for, all you had, you gave
To save mankind, yourselves you scorned to save.
Also used by Rudyard Kipling in a poem beginning “ The King went forth on Pilgrimage”
“All that they had they gave – they gave;
And they shall not return,
For these are those that have no grave
Where any heart may mourn.”
And let this land whose hearths they saved from shame for many and many an age proclaim eternal honour to their name.
And love lives on, and hath a power to bless,
When they who loved are hidden in the grave.
From "Elegy on the death of Dr. Channing" by James Russell Lowell
From "Elegy on the death of Dr. Channing" by James Russell Lowell
And should I fall – oh! be my glorious grave
Crowned with the patriot-honours of the brave.
Think that I died in virtues sacred cause;
Think that I died to win her bright applause.
The Spartan Mother and her Son. Felicia Dorothea Browne, Liverpool.
Crowned with the patriot-honours of the brave.
Think that I died in virtues sacred cause;
Think that I died to win her bright applause.
The Spartan Mother and her Son. Felicia Dorothea Browne, Liverpool.
Ars longa, vita brevis
(“Art is long, life is short”)
Hippocratic aphorism: Ars longa, vita brevis, occasio praeceps, experimentum periculosm, iudicium difficile. ("Art is long, life is short, opportunity fleeting, experiment dangerous, judgment difficult").
Adapted from an even older Greek saying.
Hippocratic aphorism: Ars longa, vita brevis, occasio praeceps, experimentum periculosm, iudicium difficile. ("Art is long, life is short, opportunity fleeting, experiment dangerous, judgment difficult").
Adapted from an even older Greek saying.
As the tide ebbs and flows
As the tide ebbs and flows, this place is surrounded twice daily by the waves of the sea like an island. (The Venerable Bede, Ecclesiastical History of England, Chapter 3, describing Lindisfarne)
As the tide ebbs and flows, this place is surrounded twice daily by the waves of the sea like an island. (The Venerable Bede, Ecclesiastical History of England, Chapter 3, describing Lindisfarne)
At duty's call.
Be brave. A myriad mothers’ sons before
Have trod this path . . . .
2nd Lieut. Leonard Neill Cook, M.C. King’s Own Royal Lancs.Regt. (Nothing else known)
Have trod this path . . . .
2nd Lieut. Leonard Neill Cook, M.C. King’s Own Royal Lancs.Regt. (Nothing else known)
Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
The Book of Revelation 2 v 10
The Book of Revelation 2 v 10
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ
Paul's Epistle to the Galatians 6 v 2
Paul's Epistle to the Galatians 6 v 2
Because of the sufferings of death, crowned with Glory and Honour.
Hebrews 2 v 9
Hebrews 2 v 9
Blessed are the dead.
The Book of Revelation 14 v 13
The Book of Revelation 14 v 13
Bravely they fought and well.
Reminiscent of 'Charge of the Light Brigade' by Alfred Lord Tennyson: "Bravely they rode and well, into the jaws of Death, into the mouth of Hell”.
Reminiscent of 'Charge of the Light Brigade' by Alfred Lord Tennyson: "Bravely they rode and well, into the jaws of Death, into the mouth of Hell”.
Brethren, pray for us.
I Thessalonians 5:25
I Thessalonians 5:25
Brother, thou art gone before us.
Burial Hymn. Edmund Clarence Steadman (1791-1868)
Burial Hymn. Edmund Clarence Steadman (1791-1868)
But this is sure, howe’er it be
We shall not face ashamedly the reckoning
Major John B. Stewart, M.C., (Nothing else known)
We shall not face ashamedly the reckoning
Major John B. Stewart, M.C., (Nothing else known)
By the long road they trod with so much faith and with such self-sacrificing bravery we have arrived at victory and today they have their reward.
"The Advance to Victory" Dispatch 21st December 1918 by Field Marshall Haig
"The Advance to Victory" Dispatch 21st December 1918 by Field Marshall Haig
By their sacrifice we are freed.
Called home in the morning of his days.
Christ died for all that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves but unto him which died for them and rose again.
2 Corinthians 5 v 15
2 Corinthians 5 v 15
Christ will link the broken chain
Till in heaven we meet again.
Found also in the following sources - Notts Free Press :- In Memoriam - 14th November 1919:
Nock - In loving memory of my dear husband, John H. Nock, who was killed by Sniper, October 14th 1918. The bugle called, he hastened forth, The bravest in the battle's van; Remember him who gives his life, Is a soldier and a man. Christ will link the broken chain closer when we meet again. - From Loving Wife and Children.
In/ affectionate remembrance/ of/ WILLIAM/ the dearly beloved husband of/ ELIZABETH SLEIGHT/ of North Frodingham/ who departed this life June 2th 1917/ aged 57 years/ Christ will link the broken chain/ Also ELIZABETH/ the beloved wife of the above/ who fell asleep Dec 22nd 1928/ in her 69th year/ At rest
The Huntingdonshire Cyclist Battalions - Christ will link the broken chain. Closer when we meet again. From his sorrowing Wife. XXXXXX. COOPER Jesse 39252 1st Royal Berkshire Regiment 29th May 1917 ...
Till in heaven we meet again.
Found also in the following sources - Notts Free Press :- In Memoriam - 14th November 1919:
Nock - In loving memory of my dear husband, John H. Nock, who was killed by Sniper, October 14th 1918. The bugle called, he hastened forth, The bravest in the battle's van; Remember him who gives his life, Is a soldier and a man. Christ will link the broken chain closer when we meet again. - From Loving Wife and Children.
In/ affectionate remembrance/ of/ WILLIAM/ the dearly beloved husband of/ ELIZABETH SLEIGHT/ of North Frodingham/ who departed this life June 2th 1917/ aged 57 years/ Christ will link the broken chain/ Also ELIZABETH/ the beloved wife of the above/ who fell asleep Dec 22nd 1928/ in her 69th year/ At rest
The Huntingdonshire Cyclist Battalions - Christ will link the broken chain. Closer when we meet again. From his sorrowing Wife. XXXXXX. COOPER Jesse 39252 1st Royal Berkshire Regiment 29th May 1917 ...
Come Life, Come Death, we acquit ourselves like men
Lieut. A.L. Jenkins (Nothing else known)
Lieut. A.L. Jenkins (Nothing else known)
Comrades all, at country's call.
Counting not the cost.
Prayer of St.Ignatius Loyola
Teach us, good Lord, to serve Thee as Thou deservest: To give and not count the cost; To fight and not heed the wounds; To toil and not seek for rest; To labor and not ask for any reward Save that of knowing we do Thy will. Amen.
Prayer of St.Ignatius Loyola
Teach us, good Lord, to serve Thee as Thou deservest: To give and not count the cost; To fight and not heed the wounds; To toil and not seek for rest; To labor and not ask for any reward Save that of knowing we do Thy will. Amen.
Death divides but memory clings.
Death is swallowed up in victory
Paul's Letter to the Corinthians 15 v 54
Paul's Letter to the Corinthians 15 v 54
Did they not rise mortality above
Who staked a lifetime all made sweet with love?
Acting-Capt. C.J.B. Masefield, M.C. A tombstone is in Cheadle, Staffs, bears the inscription: “Also of his beloved elder son / Charles John Beech Masefield / born April 15th 1882 / died of wounds July 20th? 1917? / Buried in France.
Who staked a lifetime all made sweet with love?
Acting-Capt. C.J.B. Masefield, M.C. A tombstone is in Cheadle, Staffs, bears the inscription: “Also of his beloved elder son / Charles John Beech Masefield / born April 15th 1882 / died of wounds July 20th? 1917? / Buried in France.
Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori
(It is a sweet and noble thing to die for one's country).
Horace, 'Odes', Book 3, No.2, 1.13
For First World War refutation of this, see Wilfred Owen's poem'Dulce et Decorum Est'.
(It is a sweet and noble thing to die for one's country).
Horace, 'Odes', Book 3, No.2, 1.13
For First World War refutation of this, see Wilfred Owen's poem'Dulce et Decorum Est'.
Dying so, I make myself worthy your tears
Major John E. Stewart, M.C., Staffordshire Regt. (Nothing else known)
Major John E. Stewart, M.C., Staffordshire Regt. (Nothing else known)
England be greater because we have died;
What end can be finer than this?
Capt. Eric Fitzwater Wilkinson, M.C. West Yorks.Regt. Killed in action 9th October 1917. Commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial to the missing.
What end can be finer than this?
Capt. Eric Fitzwater Wilkinson, M.C. West Yorks.Regt. Killed in action 9th October 1917. Commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial to the missing.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
From Mass for the Dead
From Mass for the Dead
Faithful unto death
The Book of Revelation 2 v 10: “Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life”.
The Book of Revelation 2 v 10: “Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life”.
Father, in Thy gracious keeping,
Leave we now Thy servants sleeping.
Hymn by John Ellerton 1870. “Now the labourers task is o'er” -Hymn 325 in The Church Hymnary, authorised for use in public worship by the Church of Scotland, United Free Church of Scotland, and the Presbyterian Churches of Scotland, Ireland, Austrialia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Leave we now Thy servants sleeping.
Hymn by John Ellerton 1870. “Now the labourers task is o'er” -Hymn 325 in The Church Hymnary, authorised for use in public worship by the Church of Scotland, United Free Church of Scotland, and the Presbyterian Churches of Scotland, Ireland, Austrialia, New Zealand and South Africa.
For Country – so a man should die.
Lieut. W.L.Wilkinson (Nothing else known)
Lieut. W.L.Wilkinson (Nothing else known)
For freedom's cause
For he knows, great hearted England,
You will never let him die.
2nd Lieut. Hugh Reginald Freston. (Nothing else known)
You will never let him die.
2nd Lieut. Hugh Reginald Freston. (Nothing else known)
For the Worship of God and the Benefit of this Land be Steadfast and Lasting in all Things without end And I command all True Men to help each other Right for to Do and Right for to Receive.
Based on The Only English Proclamation of Henry III issued October 18th 1258
Based on The Only English Proclamation of Henry III issued October 18th 1258
For their country’s weal.
Quoted in a poem “On the Bill for preventing the Exportation of British Wool, 1788”. ("Weal" means "welfare, prosperity, good fortune", as in "Commonwealth")
Quoted in a poem “On the Bill for preventing the Exportation of British Wool, 1788”. ("Weal" means "welfare, prosperity, good fortune", as in "Commonwealth")
For their work continueth great beyond their knowing.
Prelude to "Stalky and Co." by Rudyard Kipling
Prelude to "Stalky and Co." by Rudyard Kipling
For they rest from their labours and their works do follow them.
The Book of Revelation 14 v 13
The Book of Revelation 14 v 13
For us the parting and the sorrow, for him God - Speed;
One fight - a noble deed- Good night; and no to-morrow,
Where he is, in Thy peace, Time is not, nor smallest sorrow
For us they died.
From poem called “Pro Patria Mortui” in Marching Men: War Verses by Helena Coleman (1860-1953). London & Toronto: J. M. Dent & Sons, Ltd., 1917.
From poem called “Pro Patria Mortui” in Marching Men: War Verses by Helena Coleman (1860-1953). London & Toronto: J. M. Dent & Sons, Ltd., 1917.
Forever with the Lord.
Probably referring to Paul's First Epistle to the Thessalonians 4 v 16-17 which reads : For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout...and the dead in Christ shall rise first...we which remain shall be caught up together with them...so shall we ever be with the Lord. - I Thessalonians 4 v 16-17
In addition there is the hymn by James Montgomery, 1835, which may be a possible source as follows:-
"For ever with the Lord!"
Amen; so let it be;
life from the dead is in that word,
'tis immortality.
Here in the body pent,
absent from him I roam,
yet nightly pitch my moving tent
a day's march nearer home.
My Father's house on high,
home of the soul, how near!
At times to faith's foreseeing eye
thy golden gates appear!
Ah! then my spirit faints,
to reach the land I love,
the bright inheritance of saints,
Jerusalem above.
"For ever with the Lord!"
Father, if 'tis thy will,
the promise of that faithful word
even here to me fulfill.
Be thou at my right hand,
then can I never fail;
uphold thou me, and I shall stand,
fight, and I must prevail.
So when my latest breath
shall rend the veil in twain,
by death I shall escape from death,
and life eternal gain.
Knowing as I am known,
how shall I love that word,
and oft repeat before the throne,
"For ever with the Lord!"
Probably referring to Paul's First Epistle to the Thessalonians 4 v 16-17 which reads : For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout...and the dead in Christ shall rise first...we which remain shall be caught up together with them...so shall we ever be with the Lord. - I Thessalonians 4 v 16-17
In addition there is the hymn by James Montgomery, 1835, which may be a possible source as follows:-
"For ever with the Lord!"
Amen; so let it be;
life from the dead is in that word,
'tis immortality.
Here in the body pent,
absent from him I roam,
yet nightly pitch my moving tent
a day's march nearer home.
My Father's house on high,
home of the soul, how near!
At times to faith's foreseeing eye
thy golden gates appear!
Ah! then my spirit faints,
to reach the land I love,
the bright inheritance of saints,
Jerusalem above.
"For ever with the Lord!"
Father, if 'tis thy will,
the promise of that faithful word
even here to me fulfill.
Be thou at my right hand,
then can I never fail;
uphold thou me, and I shall stand,
fight, and I must prevail.
So when my latest breath
shall rend the veil in twain,
by death I shall escape from death,
and life eternal gain.
Knowing as I am known,
how shall I love that word,
and oft repeat before the throne,
"For ever with the Lord!"
Forget us not, O Land for which we fell -
May it go well with England, still go well
Lance-Corpl. Joseph Lee.
He wrote a book called “Ballads of Battle” illustrated by his own sketches. His story is told in “Fighter Writer” by Bob Burrows. Lee was known as “the Black Watch poet”. He also wrote “Work-a-Day Warriors”.
May it go well with England, still go well
Lance-Corpl. Joseph Lee.
He wrote a book called “Ballads of Battle” illustrated by his own sketches. His story is told in “Fighter Writer” by Bob Burrows. Lee was known as “the Black Watch poet”. He also wrote “Work-a-Day Warriors”.
Give rest, O Christ to thy servants with thy saints:
Hymns Ancient and Modern No. 351.
Glorious it is to wear the Crown of a Deserved Pure Success.
From a poem in a book called "Legends and Lyrics: A Book of Verses" by Adelaide Ann Procter
From a poem in a book called "Legends and Lyrics: A Book of Verses" by Adelaide Ann Procter
Go placidly amid the noise and haste
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
Desiderata Max Ehrmann 1872-1945
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
Desiderata Max Ehrmann 1872-1945
God asked of Britain's homes a costly sacrifice,
And these ungrudging paid the price.
God is not unrighteous that he should forget.
Possibly adapted from the Letter to the Hebrews 6 v 10 “God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love . . .”
Possibly adapted from the Letter to the Hebrews 6 v 10 “God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love . . .”
God is our refuge and strength
Psalm 46 v 1
Psalm 46 v 1
God made trial of them and found them worthy of himself.
See “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God”
See “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God”
God proved him, and found him worthy for Himself.
Apocrypha, Book of Wisdom 111.5
Apocrypha, Book of Wisdom 111.5
God speed our departed victors.
Grant, Lord, that we full worthy be
Of these - our loved – our sacrificed.
Grant that they may live to see
fruits of their victory,
all nations drawn to Thee
The silver cord - the golden bowl –
Unbroken - whole –
Renewed - restored
We thank Thee, Lord”
Ecclesiastes 12 vv 6-7 gives “ . . .or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it."
Of these - our loved – our sacrificed.
Grant that they may live to see
fruits of their victory,
all nations drawn to Thee
The silver cord - the golden bowl –
Unbroken - whole –
Renewed - restored
We thank Thee, Lord”
Ecclesiastes 12 vv 6-7 gives “ . . .or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it."
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Gospel of St. John 15 v 13.
Gospel of St. John 15 v 13.
Greater than a poet’s fame-
A little grave that has no name.
"Soliloquy" by Lce.Cpl. Francis Ledwige
A little grave that has no name.
"Soliloquy" by Lce.Cpl. Francis Ledwige
He asked life of Thee and Thou gavest him a long life, even for ever and ever.
Psalm 21 v 4.
Psalm 21 v 4.
He being dead yet speaketh.
Letter to the Hebrews 11 v 4
Letter to the Hebrews 11 v 4
He being made perfect in a short time fulfilled a long time
Apocrypha, Wisdom of Solomon 4 v 13
Apocrypha, Wisdom of Solomon 4 v 13
He breaketh the bow and knappeth the spear in sunder
Psalm 46 v 9: ("He breaketh the bow and cutteth the spear in sunder.
Psalm 46 v 9: ("He breaketh the bow and cutteth the spear in sunder.
He counted not his life dear unto himself but laid it down for his friends.
Acts 20:24 “Neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, . . .
Acts 20:24 “Neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, . . .
He did his duty
Used on posters and in military propaganda during the Great War
Used on posters and in military propaganda during the Great War
He died that others might not die
Lieut. Francis St. Vincent Morris, Sherwood Foresters. (Nothing else known)
Lieut. Francis St. Vincent Morris, Sherwood Foresters. (Nothing else known)
He died; if it be death to give
His life that all he loved might live.
His life that all he loved might live.
He giveth his beloved sleep.
Psalm 127 v 2
Psalm 127 v 2
He lives in fame that died in virtue's cause.
Shakespeare: "Titus Andronicus", Act 1 Scene 1. (Supplied by Lis Rees, Tyne and Wear Archives)
Shakespeare: "Titus Andronicus", Act 1 Scene 1. (Supplied by Lis Rees, Tyne and Wear Archives)
He liveth long who liveth well.
Hymns of Faith and Hope, second series, Horatio Bonar:1861.
Hymns of Faith and Hope, second series, Horatio Bonar:1861.
He that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
Matthew 10 v 39
Matthew 10 v 39
He was likely had he been put on to have proved most royal
Shakespeare: "Hamlet", Act 5 scene 2.
Shakespeare: "Hamlet", Act 5 scene 2.
He who gives his life for King and Country leaves nought undone that man can do.
He whom this scroll commemorates was numbered among
those who, at the call of King and Country, left all that was
dear to them, endured hardness, faced danger, and finally passed out of sight of men by the path of duty and self-sacrifice, giving up their own lives that others might live in freedom. Let those who come after see to it that his name be not forgotten.
Certificate 11 inches high x 7 inches wide sent to all bereaved families under the George V cipher and coat of arms.
This was accompanied by a medal popularly called a “Death or Dead Man's Penny”, which bore the full name of the dead man without rank or regiment so that all were equal in death.
This equality also extended to the Portland stones headstones which treat every man the same regardless of rank or wealth. If there was no body to bury, their names were inscribed on monuments such as Thiepval.
Certificate 11 inches high x 7 inches wide sent to all bereaved families under the George V cipher and coat of arms.
This was accompanied by a medal popularly called a “Death or Dead Man's Penny”, which bore the full name of the dead man without rank or regiment so that all were equal in death.
This equality also extended to the Portland stones headstones which treat every man the same regardless of rank or wealth. If there was no body to bury, their names were inscribed on monuments such as Thiepval.
Heaven is so near by water as by land.
Ecclesiastical History Jeremy Collier, (IV, 241), (ed. 1852)
Ecclesiastical History Jeremy Collier, (IV, 241), (ed. 1852)
Here am I, send me.
See "I heard the voice of the Lord".
See "I heard the voice of the Lord".
Here are inscribed names which bid us by service our debt repay.
Here dead lie we because we did not choose to live
And shame the land from which we sprung
Life, to be sure, is nothing much to lose.
But young men think it is, and we were young.
A.E. Housman. Published in 1917
And shame the land from which we sprung
Life, to be sure, is nothing much to lose.
But young men think it is, and we were young.
A.E. Housman. Published in 1917
Here do we lie dead, but not discontent,
That which we found to do has had accomplishment.
Lance-Cpl. Joseph Lee
He wrote a book called “Ballads of Battle” illustrated by his own sketches. His story is told in “Fighter Writer” by Bob Burrows. Lee was known as “the Black Watch poet”. He also wrote “Work-a-Day Warriors”.
That which we found to do has had accomplishment.
Lance-Cpl. Joseph Lee
He wrote a book called “Ballads of Battle” illustrated by his own sketches. His story is told in “Fighter Writer” by Bob Burrows. Lee was known as “the Black Watch poet”. He also wrote “Work-a-Day Warriors”.
High heart, high speech, high deeds, ‘mid honouring eyes
Lieut. The Hon. E. Wyndham Tennant, Grenadier Guards. (Nothing else known)
Lieut. The Hon. E. Wyndham Tennant, Grenadier Guards. (Nothing else known)
His faithfulness and truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Psalm 91 v 4.
Psalm 91 v 4.
His life beside the many he regarded as naught;
Selfless he lived, this token quite unsought.
Selfless he lived, this token quite unsought.
His life for his country, his soul to God.
Used elsewhere. Source not known.
Used elsewhere. Source not known.
Honour their names for evermore, for they were the glory of their times.
See "Their Name liveth for evermore"
See "Their Name liveth for evermore"
Honour where honour is due
Romans 13 v7
Romans 13 v7
Honoured as seeing him who is invisible.
Based on Hebrews 11 v 27: "For he endured, as seeing him who is invisible".
Based on Hebrews 11 v 27: "For he endured, as seeing him who is invisible".
How can a man die better
Than facing fearful odds,
For the ashes of his fathers,
And the temples of his gods?
From Horatius, first poem in Lays of Ancient Rome by Thomas Babington Macaulay.
Than facing fearful odds,
For the ashes of his fathers,
And the temples of his gods?
From Horatius, first poem in Lays of Ancient Rome by Thomas Babington Macaulay.
How sleep the brave who sink to rest,
By all their Country's wishes blest,
By fairy hands their knell is rung,
By forms unseen their dirge is sung.
"Ode written in the year 1746". William Collins.
By all their Country's wishes blest,
By fairy hands their knell is rung,
By forms unseen their dirge is sung.
"Ode written in the year 1746". William Collins.
Humble because of knowledge; mighty by sacrifice.
The Islanders. Rudyard Kipling.
The Islanders. Rudyard Kipling.
I am the Resurrection and the life saith the Lord: He that believeth in me though he were dead, yet shall he live, and whosever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.
Gospel of St John, XI, 25.26
Gospel of St John, XI, 25.26
I am with you always.
Gospel of St. Matthew 28 v 20
Gospel of St. Matthew 28 v 20
I came to thee in the name of the Lord of Hosts.
1 Samuel 17-45. The story of David & Goliath.
1 Samuel 17-45. The story of David & Goliath.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
Second letter to Timothy 4 v 7.
Second letter to Timothy 4 v 7.
I heard a voice from Heaven, saying unto me, "Write, from henceforth blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, Even so, saith the Spirit, for they rest from their labours."
The Book of Revelation 14 v 13
The Book of Revelation 14 v 13
I heard the Voice of the Lord saying: Whom shall I send, and who will go for us. Then said I, Here am I, send me
Isaiah 6 v 8
Isaiah 6 v 8
I know not where His islands lift
their fronded palms in air
I only know I cannot drift
beyond His love and care.
The Eternal Goodness by John Greenleaf Whittier
their fronded palms in air
I only know I cannot drift
beyond His love and care.
The Eternal Goodness by John Greenleaf Whittier
I pressed towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Based on Philippians 3:14.
Based on Philippians 3:14.
I saw the morning break.
"Between Midnight and morning (December 1914)" : by Sir Owen Seaman.
See "That you may tell your sons that see the light"
"Between Midnight and morning (December 1914)" : by Sir Owen Seaman.
See "That you may tell your sons that see the light"
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.
Paul's Epistle to the Philippians 1 v 3
Paul's Epistle to the Philippians 1 v 3
I with uncovered head salute the sacred dead
See "Salute the glorious dead"
See "Salute the glorious dead"
If I should die, think only this of me.
“The Soldier” , Rupert Brooke
“The Soldier” , Rupert Brooke
If love could save thou hadst not died.
Found also at Agira, Sicily, on the headstone of Private. C.A. Perry, 2 August 1943, age 33. "To memory ever dear. If love could save, thou hadst not died."
Found also at Agira, Sicily, on the headstone of Private. C.A. Perry, 2 August 1943, age 33. "To memory ever dear. If love could save, thou hadst not died."
Poem: "If love could have saved you" Summer Sandercox.
If thou hadst not gone before us and taught us, who would dare to follow?
Thomas à Kempis: Imitation of Christ Book III On Inward Consolation Ch.XVIII:
Oh what great thanks am I bound to give Thee, who hast vouchsafed to show me and all faithful people the good and right way to Thine eternal kingdom, for Thy way is our way, and by holy patience we walk to Thee who art our Crown. If Thou hadst not gone before and taught us, who would care to follow? Oh, how far would they have gone backward if they had not beheld Thy glorious example! Behold we are still lukewarm, though we have heard of Thy many signs and discourses; what would become of us if we had not such a light to help us follow Thee?
Thomas à Kempis: Imitation of Christ Book III On Inward Consolation Ch.XVIII:
Oh what great thanks am I bound to give Thee, who hast vouchsafed to show me and all faithful people the good and right way to Thine eternal kingdom, for Thy way is our way, and by holy patience we walk to Thee who art our Crown. If Thou hadst not gone before and taught us, who would care to follow? Oh, how far would they have gone backward if they had not beheld Thy glorious example! Behold we are still lukewarm, though we have heard of Thy many signs and discourses; what would become of us if we had not such a light to help us follow Thee?
In Britain is one breath
Tis Victory or Death
To the Men of Kent, October 1803, William Wordsworth. "In Britain is one breath; / We all are with you now from shore to shore:--/ Ye men of Kent, 'tis victory or death!"
Tis Victory or Death
To the Men of Kent, October 1803, William Wordsworth. "In Britain is one breath; / We all are with you now from shore to shore:--/ Ye men of Kent, 'tis victory or death!"
In Christ shall all be made alive.
First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians 15.22
First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians 15.22
In Thy redeeming love have mercy on the fallen.
Campaign Prayer Book 1892 -"For the Sick and Wounded"
Campaign Prayer Book 1892 -"For the Sick and Wounded"
In heavenly love abiding.
First line of a hymn by Anna L. Waring, 1850, based on John 15:10.
First line of a hymn by Anna L. Waring, 1850, based on John 15:10.
In hoc signo vinces (“By this sign you shall conquer”)
Said to have been adopted by Constantine after seeing the the Chi Rho sign in the sky just before the Battle of Milvain in 312 A.D. Later used on the badge of the Knights Templar.
Said to have been adopted by Constantine after seeing the the Chi Rho sign in the sky just before the Battle of Milvain in 312 A.D. Later used on the badge of the Knights Templar.
In life eager, in service faithful, in death triumphant
In loving hearts these names abide.
In sacred sleep they lie; say not that the brave die.
Found also at Chesterfield Grammar School War Memorial.
Found also at Chesterfield Grammar School War Memorial.
In sure and certain hope of the Resurrection to Eternal Life through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Service for The Burial of the Dead
In that while we were in peril they died for us.
In the sight of the unwise they seemed to die, but they are in peace.
Wisdom of Solomon 3 v 1-3: "But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and there shall no torment touch them. In the sight of the unwise they seemed to die: and their departure is taken for misery, And their going from us to be utter destruction: but they are in peace.
Wisdom of Solomon 3 v 1-3: "But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and there shall no torment touch them. In the sight of the unwise they seemed to die: and their departure is taken for misery, And their going from us to be utter destruction: but they are in peace.
In this world there is no death, but forgetfulness.
In this world's mad field of battle
In the bivouac of Life,
Be not like dumb, driven cattle!
Be a hero in the strife!
Adapted from "A Psalm of Life", Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1838. First line should read: "In this world's broad field of battle".
In the bivouac of Life,
Be not like dumb, driven cattle!
Be a hero in the strife!
Adapted from "A Psalm of Life", Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1838. First line should read: "In this world's broad field of battle".
Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by?
Book of Lamentations 1 v 12
Book of Lamentations 1 v 12
It is I, be not afraid.
John 6:20. Jesus walks across the sea to join the disciples on their boat.
John 6:20. Jesus walks across the sea to join the disciples on their boat.
It is to life and not to death that our beloved go.
Lest we forget.
“Recessional” 1897. Rudyard Kipling.
This poem was written even before the Boer War. It was written at the time of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. Britain had its Empire and this was a word of warning that pride comes before a fall.
“Recessional” 1897. Rudyard Kipling.
This poem was written even before the Boer War. It was written at the time of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. Britain had its Empire and this was a word of warning that pride comes before a fall.
Let it be told at Sparta that we remain at our posts.
Herodotus' Histories Book VII Ch.228
This was what could be described as Leonidas' Last Stand, as he dismissed troops and kept a few chosen ones to defend the pass at Thermopylae.
Simonides 556-468 B.C. wrote the story, and the quotation attributed to him in Herodotus' Histories is actually thus: “Go tell the Spartans, thou who passest by, That here, obedient to their laws we lie”. or “Go tell the Spartans, though that passest by, That faithful to their precepts here we lie”.
Herodotus' Histories Book VII Ch.228
This was what could be described as Leonidas' Last Stand, as he dismissed troops and kept a few chosen ones to defend the pass at Thermopylae.
Simonides 556-468 B.C. wrote the story, and the quotation attributed to him in Herodotus' Histories is actually thus: “Go tell the Spartans, thou who passest by, That here, obedient to their laws we lie”. or “Go tell the Spartans, though that passest by, That faithful to their precepts here we lie”.
Let not their glory fade
Let their names be cherished with gratitude and pride and the remembrance of their steadfast endurance and gallant sacrifice be enshrined in the hearts of their people for ever.
Let us be worthy of the sacrifice.
Let us not be weary in well-doing for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.
Paul's Epistle to the Galatians, 6 v 9.
Paul's Epistle to the Galatians, 6 v 9.
Let us now praise famous men, and our fathers that begat us.
Apocrypha: Ecclesiasticus 44 1-15
Let us now praise famous men, and our fathers that begat us.
The Lord hath wrought great glory by them through his great power from the beginning.
Such as did bear rule in their kingdoms, men renowned for their power, giving counsel by their understanding, and declaring prophecies;
Leaders of the people by their counsels, and by their knowledge of learning meet for the people, wise and eloquent in their instructions;
Such as found out musical tunes, and recited verses in writing;
Rich men furnished with ability, living peaceably in their habitations.
All these were honoured in their generations, and were the glory of their times.
There be of them, that have left a name behind them, that their praises might be reported.
And some there be which have no memorial; who are perished, as though they had never been; and are become as though they had never been born; and their children after them.
But these were merciful men, whose righteousness shall not be forgotten.
With their seed shall continually remain a good inheritance, and their children are within the covenant.
Their seed standeth fast, and their children for their sakes.
Their seed shall remain for ever, and their glory shall not be blotted out.
Their bodies are buried in peace, but their name liveth for evermore.
The people will tell of their wisdom, and the congregation shall shew forth their praise.
Apocrypha: Ecclesiasticus 44 1-15
Let us now praise famous men, and our fathers that begat us.
The Lord hath wrought great glory by them through his great power from the beginning.
Such as did bear rule in their kingdoms, men renowned for their power, giving counsel by their understanding, and declaring prophecies;
Leaders of the people by their counsels, and by their knowledge of learning meet for the people, wise and eloquent in their instructions;
Such as found out musical tunes, and recited verses in writing;
Rich men furnished with ability, living peaceably in their habitations.
All these were honoured in their generations, and were the glory of their times.
There be of them, that have left a name behind them, that their praises might be reported.
And some there be which have no memorial; who are perished, as though they had never been; and are become as though they had never been born; and their children after them.
But these were merciful men, whose righteousness shall not be forgotten.
With their seed shall continually remain a good inheritance, and their children are within the covenant.
Their seed standeth fast, and their children for their sakes.
Their seed shall remain for ever, and their glory shall not be blotted out.
Their bodies are buried in peace, but their name liveth for evermore.
The people will tell of their wisdom, and the congregation shall shew forth their praise.
Lord I believe, help thou mine unbelief.
Mark 9 v 24
Mark 9 v 24
Lord I have loved the habitation of Thy house
Psalm 26 v 8
Psalm 26 v 8
Lord all pitying, Jesu blest,
Grant them thine eternal rest.
From the Dies Irae (Day of Wrath) sequence of the Mass for the Dead, particularly on All Souls’ Day or Feast of All Saints, November 1st.
Grant them thine eternal rest.
From the Dies Irae (Day of Wrath) sequence of the Mass for the Dead, particularly on All Souls’ Day or Feast of All Saints, November 1st.
Lord, from this storm-awakened isle,
At this dark hour on land and sea,
'Twixt bugle-call and Sabbath bell
Go up our prayers to Thee.
Quoted from 'Evening Prayer of a People. Sunday August 9th 1914'. Neil Munro, Glasgow Evening News, August 9, 1914
At this dark hour on land and sea,
'Twixt bugle-call and Sabbath bell
Go up our prayers to Thee.
Quoted from 'Evening Prayer of a People. Sunday August 9th 1914'. Neil Munro, Glasgow Evening News, August 9, 1914
Love conquers all things: even death
"God Is"; John Oxenham, in his book "All's Well", first published by Methuen and Co. Ltd. 1914:
"God is;
God sees;
God loves;
God knows.
And Right is Right;
And Right is Might.
In the full ripeness of His Time,
All these His vast prepotencies
Shall round their grace-work to the prime
Of full accomplishment,
And we shall see the plan sublime
Of His beneficent intent.
Live on in hope!
Press on in faith!
Love conquers all things,
Even Death."
Information provided by Anja Slowinski from Germany.
"God Is"; John Oxenham, in his book "All's Well", first published by Methuen and Co. Ltd. 1914:
"God is;
God sees;
God loves;
God knows.
And Right is Right;
And Right is Might.
In the full ripeness of His Time,
All these His vast prepotencies
Shall round their grace-work to the prime
Of full accomplishment,
And we shall see the plan sublime
Of His beneficent intent.
Live on in hope!
Press on in faith!
Love conquers all things,
Even Death."
Information provided by Anja Slowinski from Germany.
Love home above their own hearts’ blood
And honour more than life.
Lieut. Geoffrey Bache Smith, Lancs. Fusiliers Friend of Tolkien. Born 18/10/1894. Joined 19 Lancs. Fus. Sent to France 1915. Died from wounds 3/12/1915. Buried Warlencourt Cemetery.
And honour more than life.
Lieut. Geoffrey Bache Smith, Lancs. Fusiliers Friend of Tolkien. Born 18/10/1894. Joined 19 Lancs. Fus. Sent to France 1915. Died from wounds 3/12/1915. Buried Warlencourt Cemetery.
Love is strong as death
Song of Solomon 8v 6.
Song of Solomon 8v 6.
Love their memory: imitate their devotion.
Lovers of Life, we pledge thee Liberty
And go to death calmly, triumphantly.
Sgt. J. W. Streets. kia 30/6 1/7 1915 at the Battle of the Somme. Buried at Euston Road Cemetery, Colincamps. Reference: Special Memorial A. 6. The Undying Splendour: IX. Youth's Consecration.
And go to death calmly, triumphantly.
Sgt. J. W. Streets. kia 30/6 1/7 1915 at the Battle of the Somme. Buried at Euston Road Cemetery, Colincamps. Reference: Special Memorial A. 6. The Undying Splendour: IX. Youth's Consecration.
Make them to be numbered with thy saints in glory everlasting.
From Te Deum Laudamus (We praise thee, O God). Unknown origin (sometime ascribed to St Ambrose). Sometimes sung as a general "hymn of thanksgiving" at other services. Text is as follows:-
We praise thee, O God: we acknowledge thee to be the Lord.
All the earth doth worship thee: the Father everlasting.
To thee all Angels cry aloud: the Heavens, and all the Powers therein.
To thee Cherubim and Seraphim: continually do cry,
Holy, Holy, Holy: Lord God of Sabaoth;
Heaven and earth are full of the Majesty : of thy glory.
The glorious company of the Apostles: praise thee.
The goodly fellowship of the Prophets: praise thee.
The noble army of Martyrs: praise thee.
The holy Church throughout all the world: doth acknowledge thee;
The Father: of an infinite Majesty;
Thine honourable, true: and only Son;
Also the Holy Ghost: the Comforter.
Thou art the King of Glory: O Christ.
Thou art the everlasting Son: of the Father.
When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man: thou didst not abhor the Virgin's womb.
When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death: thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers.
Thou sittest at the right hand of God: in the glory of the Father.
We believe that thou shalt come: to be our Judge.
We therefore pray thee, help thy servants: whom thou hast redeemed with thy precious blood.
Make them to be numbered with thy Saints: in glory everlasting.
O Lord, save thy people: and bless thine heritage.
Govern them: and lift them up for ever.
Day by day: we magnify thee;
And we worship thy Name: ever world without end.
Vouchsafe, O Lord: to keep us this day without sin.
O Lord, have mercy upon us: have mercy upon us.
O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us: as our trust is in thee.
O Lord, in thee have I trusted: let me never be confounded.
Source - Book of Common Prayer 1892.
From Te Deum Laudamus (We praise thee, O God). Unknown origin (sometime ascribed to St Ambrose). Sometimes sung as a general "hymn of thanksgiving" at other services. Text is as follows:-
We praise thee, O God: we acknowledge thee to be the Lord.
All the earth doth worship thee: the Father everlasting.
To thee all Angels cry aloud: the Heavens, and all the Powers therein.
To thee Cherubim and Seraphim: continually do cry,
Holy, Holy, Holy: Lord God of Sabaoth;
Heaven and earth are full of the Majesty : of thy glory.
The glorious company of the Apostles: praise thee.
The goodly fellowship of the Prophets: praise thee.
The noble army of Martyrs: praise thee.
The holy Church throughout all the world: doth acknowledge thee;
The Father: of an infinite Majesty;
Thine honourable, true: and only Son;
Also the Holy Ghost: the Comforter.
Thou art the King of Glory: O Christ.
Thou art the everlasting Son: of the Father.
When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man: thou didst not abhor the Virgin's womb.
When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death: thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers.
Thou sittest at the right hand of God: in the glory of the Father.
We believe that thou shalt come: to be our Judge.
We therefore pray thee, help thy servants: whom thou hast redeemed with thy precious blood.
Make them to be numbered with thy Saints: in glory everlasting.
O Lord, save thy people: and bless thine heritage.
Govern them: and lift them up for ever.
Day by day: we magnify thee;
And we worship thy Name: ever world without end.
Vouchsafe, O Lord: to keep us this day without sin.
O Lord, have mercy upon us: have mercy upon us.
O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us: as our trust is in thee.
O Lord, in thee have I trusted: let me never be confounded.
Source - Book of Common Prayer 1892.
May in thy ranks be deemed not all unworthy
England, for thee to die
From "A Petition" by Lieut. Robert Ernest Vernède, Rifle Brigade, born 1875, killed in action 1917 aged 41
(Information supplied by Diana Vanderson)
His story is told in Poets of the Great War Tonie and Valmai Holt; 1999, Leo Cooper; ISBN 0 85052 706 6
England, for thee to die
From "A Petition" by Lieut. Robert Ernest Vernède, Rifle Brigade, born 1875, killed in action 1917 aged 41
(Information supplied by Diana Vanderson)
His story is told in Poets of the Great War Tonie and Valmai Holt; 1999, Leo Cooper; ISBN 0 85052 706 6
May their deeds be held in reverence.
May their reward be as great as their sacrifice.
Used on many memorials. Source unknown.
Used on many memorials. Source unknown.
Memory lingers here.
On a tombstone for a Baptist Elder in Petersburg, Vancouver. He took charge of the First Baptist Church Harrison St., Petersburg, Vancouver. Died 15/11/1873
On a tombstone for a Baptist Elder in Petersburg, Vancouver. He took charge of the First Baptist Church Harrison St., Petersburg, Vancouver. Died 15/11/1873
Mighty by sacrifice.
See Humble because of knowledge; mighty by sacrifice.
See Humble because of knowledge; mighty by sacrifice.
Mors janua vitae
"Death is the door to life". School motto of King Edward Vl School, Morpeth. Quoted on the school war memorial.
"Death is the door to life". School motto of King Edward Vl School, Morpeth. Quoted on the school war memorial.
My marks and scars I carry with me to be a witness for me that I have fought his battles who now will be my rewarder
Pilgrim's Progress Pt II by John Bunyan, Mr. Valiant For Truth
Pilgrim's Progress Pt II by John Bunyan, Mr. Valiant For Truth
My peace I give unto you.
St. John's Gospel 14 v 27.
St. John's Gospel 14 v 27.
Naught shall make us rue, if England do itself so rest but true.
Shakespeare: King John: Act 5 Scene 7
Shakespeare: King John: Act 5 Scene 7
Nec tamen consumebatur
(But it was not consumed)
This is the motto of the Scottish Nonconformist Church. It comes from the story of Moses and the Burning Bush told in Exodus 3.
(But it was not consumed)
This is the motto of the Scottish Nonconformist Church. It comes from the story of Moses and the Burning Bush told in Exodus 3.
Nisi dominus frustra.
Psalm 126 v 1: "Unless the Lord be with us, all is in vain”
Psalm 126 v 1: "Unless the Lord be with us, all is in vain”
No hate was theirs, no thirst for fame
When forth to Death by Honour sent.
Life beckoned sweet, the Great Call came,
They knew their duty and they went.
When forth to Death by Honour sent.
Life beckoned sweet, the Great Call came,
They knew their duty and they went.
Non sibi sed omnibus
"Not for himself but for all"
Source not known but used universally.
"Not for himself but for all"
Source not known but used universally.
Not as I will but as Thou wilt.
Gospel of St. Matthew 26 v 39
Gospel of St. Matthew 26 v 39
Not by might or power but by my spirit.
Zechariah 4 v 6
Zechariah 4 v 6
Not once or twice in this rough island's story,
The path of duty was the way to glory.
Ode on the Death of the Duke of Wellington, Viii. Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The path of duty was the way to glory.
Ode on the Death of the Duke of Wellington, Viii. Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Nothing is here for tears
Nothing to wail or knock the breast;
No weakness, No contempt,
Dispraise or blame;
Nothing but well and fair
and what may quiet us in a death so noble.
“Samson Agonistes” - line 1721. John Milton.
Nothing to wail or knock the breast;
No weakness, No contempt,
Dispraise or blame;
Nothing but well and fair
and what may quiet us in a death so noble.
“Samson Agonistes” - line 1721. John Milton.
O England, sometimes think of him
As once he thought of you.
2nd Lieut. Hugh Reginald Freston, Royal Berks.Regt. (Nothing else known)
As once he thought of you.
2nd Lieut. Hugh Reginald Freston, Royal Berks.Regt. (Nothing else known)
O God for England these strong souls have passed.
Grant we may make her worthy of them at last.
Grant we may make her worthy of them at last.
O Liberty, at thy command we challenge death
"The Undying Challenge IX Youth’s Consecration." Sgt. J. W. Streets
"The Undying Challenge IX Youth’s Consecration." Sgt. J. W. Streets
O let the song of praise be sung. Alleluia!
Hymn “The strife is o'er, the battle won”. Songs of Praise No. 147.
Hymn “The strife is o'er, the battle won”. Songs of Praise No. 147.
O not in vain has been your great endeavour
For by your dyings life is born again
And greater love hath no man tokened ever
Than with his life to purchase life's high gain
“The Vision Splendid” John Oxenham.
For by your dyings life is born again
And greater love hath no man tokened ever
Than with his life to purchase life's high gain
“The Vision Splendid” John Oxenham.
O! brothers, sleep in peace.
From "To Our Fallen" by Lieut. Robert Ernest Vernède , Rifle Brigade, born 1875, killed in action 1917 aged 41
(Information supplied by Diana Vanderson)
From "To Our Fallen" by Lieut. Robert Ernest Vernède , Rifle Brigade, born 1875, killed in action 1917 aged 41
(Information supplied by Diana Vanderson)
Oh, happy to have lived in these epic days!
Co.-Sgt.-Maj. W.H. Littlejohn, Middlesex Regt. (Nothing else known)
Co.-Sgt.-Maj. W.H. Littlejohn, Middlesex Regt. (Nothing else known)
On all the oceans where whitecaps flow,
There are no crosses, row on row;
But those who sleep beneath the sea,
sleep in peace...your country is free".
Author unknown.
There are no crosses, row on row;
But those who sleep beneath the sea,
sleep in peace...your country is free".
Author unknown.
On that happy Easter morning,
All the graves their dead restore,
Father, mother, sister, brother,
Meet once more.
Verse from the Hymn: 'On the resurrection morning' by Sabine Baring Gould. Church Times 1864
All the graves their dead restore,
Father, mother, sister, brother,
Meet once more.
Verse from the Hymn: 'On the resurrection morning' by Sabine Baring Gould. Church Times 1864
On to the City of God
Rugby Chapel, 1857 Matthew Arnold.
Rugby Chapel, 1857 Matthew Arnold.
One crowded hour of glorious life
is worth an age without a name.
Thomas Osbert Mordaunt (1730-1809)
is worth an age without a name.
Thomas Osbert Mordaunt (1730-1809)
Our Country in the storm of war
Has found him fit to fight and die for her
Capt. Eric Fitzwater Wilkinson, M.C. West Yorks.Regt. Killed in action 9th October 1917. Commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial to the missing. (Northing else about the quotation is known)
Has found him fit to fight and die for her
Capt. Eric Fitzwater Wilkinson, M.C. West Yorks.Regt. Killed in action 9th October 1917. Commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial to the missing. (Northing else about the quotation is known)
Our highest, best achieved - behold
A higher niche and sphere!
"The Song of the Stars" from the book "Alarums and Excursions" by Capt. Arthur Scott Craven, Buffs.
The name of Arthur Scott Craven was the pseudonym of actor, playwright and poet Arthur Keedwell Harvey-James, who was killed on 14th April 1917.
(Information from Tim Dockery, his great-grandson)
A higher niche and sphere!
"The Song of the Stars" from the book "Alarums and Excursions" by Capt. Arthur Scott Craven, Buffs.
The name of Arthur Scott Craven was the pseudonym of actor, playwright and poet Arthur Keedwell Harvey-James, who was killed on 14th April 1917.
(Information from Tim Dockery, his great-grandson)
Parati sumus mori, magis quod patrias Dei leges praevaricari.
“We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of God” Apocrypha: 2 Maccabees 7 v 2. This is found in Ushaw College, accompanied by “Perenne quae fert gaudium” “Which brings lasting joy” the source of which is unknown. Maccabees 7
“We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of God” Apocrypha: 2 Maccabees 7 v 2. This is found in Ushaw College, accompanied by “Perenne quae fert gaudium” “Which brings lasting joy” the source of which is unknown. Maccabees 7
Pass Friend, all is well.
Sentry password after challenging a person approaching with 'Halt, who goes there'? If the answer is 'Friend', they respond as above.
As far as is known, this appears only on the memorial at Hartburn, Northumberland.
Sentry password after challenging a person approaching with 'Halt, who goes there'? If the answer is 'Friend', they respond as above.
As far as is known, this appears only on the memorial at Hartburn, Northumberland.
Pass not this stone in sorrow but in pride
And may ye live as nobly as they died.
Also found at: Belmont Road Belfast, North Skelton, Silverston Northampton, Staithes, Runswick Bay, Hindwell and Port Musgrave, Quorn and Skinningrove
And may ye live as nobly as they died.
Also found at: Belmont Road Belfast, North Skelton, Silverston Northampton, Staithes, Runswick Bay, Hindwell and Port Musgrave, Quorn and Skinningrove
Peace to the living, rest to the dead.
Thanks to Hilary Underwood who has submitted the following:
"Peace around these halls be shed,
Peace to the living, rest to the dead"
appears as the sub-title of 'Porch of St. Paul's', a painting by S. Bendixen exhibited at the British Institution Gallery in London in Feb 1836. Therefore the source from which it is drawn pre-dates this. I have not been able to identify the source in an internet search.
Peace, perfect peace
Hymn by Edward H. Bickersteth, Jr., 1875, based on Isaiah 26 v 3
Hymn by Edward H. Bickersteth, Jr., 1875, based on Isaiah 26 v 3
Peace. After all you died not.
Acting-Capt. C.J.B. Masefield, M.C. Charles John Beech Masefield d 1917 N. Staffs. Regt. (Nothing else known)
Acting-Capt. C.J.B. Masefield, M.C. Charles John Beech Masefield d 1917 N. Staffs. Regt. (Nothing else known)
Per crucem ad lucem.
A website says “Bishop Peter Lei’s coat of arms illustrates his motto “Per Crucem ad Lucem” – “Through the Cross to the realm of Light”.
A website says “Bishop Peter Lei’s coat of arms illustrates his motto “Per Crucem ad Lucem” – “Through the Cross to the realm of Light”.
Pleasant in their lives . . .
See "They were lovely and pleasant in their lives".
See "They were lovely and pleasant in their lives".
Pray for one another
James 5 v 16 "Pray one for another"
James 5 v 16 "Pray one for another"
Pro Patria Mori
See Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori
See Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori
Remember the love of them that came not home from the war.
Requiescant in pace.
"May they rest in peace"
From Latin Mass for the Dead. "Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine; et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace". ("Eternal rest grant unto them, O lord, and let light perpetual shine upon them")
The singular "May he rest in peace" is "Requiescat in pace"
"May they rest in peace"
From Latin Mass for the Dead. "Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine; et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace". ("Eternal rest grant unto them, O lord, and let light perpetual shine upon them")
The singular "May he rest in peace" is "Requiescat in pace"
Rest eternal grant unto them, O Lord; let light perpetual shine upon them.
From the Mass for the Dead.
From the Mass for the Dead.
Resting where no shadows fall.
Right is might
See "Love conquers all things"
See "Love conquers all things"
Salute the glorious dead who went out and returned not.
Based on “Ode After the Burial” Ode Recited at the Harvard Commemoration, July 21, 1865, James Russell Lowell
I with uncovered head
Salute the Sacred Dead
Who went and who return not -
Say not so
I see them muster in a gleaming row
With ever-youthful brows that nobler show
We find in our dull road their shining track.
In every nobler mood
We feel the orient of their spirit glow
Part of our life's unalterable good
Of all our saintlier aspiration
They came transfigured back
Secure from charge in their high hearted ways
Beautiful evermore and with the rays
Of morn in their white Shields of Expectation
Based on “Ode After the Burial” Ode Recited at the Harvard Commemoration, July 21, 1865, James Russell Lowell
I with uncovered head
Salute the Sacred Dead
Who went and who return not -
Say not so
I see them muster in a gleaming row
With ever-youthful brows that nobler show
We find in our dull road their shining track.
In every nobler mood
We feel the orient of their spirit glow
Part of our life's unalterable good
Of all our saintlier aspiration
They came transfigured back
Secure from charge in their high hearted ways
Beautiful evermore and with the rays
Of morn in their white Shields of Expectation
Sed miles, sed pro patria.
(Just a soldier, just for his country")
"Clifton Chapel" by Sir Henry Newbolt.
(Just a soldier, just for his country")
"Clifton Chapel" by Sir Henry Newbolt.
See that you conquer by living as we conquered by dying.
See ye to it they shall not have died in vain.
She hath done what she could.
Mark 14:8
Mark 14:8
Sleep lightly lad. Thou art for King's guard at daybreak.
With spotless kit turn-out and take a place of honour.
In St. Barnabas Church, Burnmoor, C-L-S. B154.01;
"Sleep lightly lads, you are for King's guard at day break
With spotless Kit turn out and take a place of Honour."
At Medomsley M36.03
With spotless kit turn-out and take a place of honour.
In St. Barnabas Church, Burnmoor, C-L-S. B154.01;
"Sleep lightly lads, you are for King's guard at day break
With spotless Kit turn out and take a place of Honour."
At Medomsley M36.03
So he bringeth them unto a haven where they would be
Psalm 107.30
Psalm 107.30
So passes with the dying hymn
Our little hour
Sgt. Leslie Coulson, Royal Fusiliers kia Somme 8th October 1916. (Nothing else known)
Our little hour
Sgt. Leslie Coulson, Royal Fusiliers kia Somme 8th October 1916. (Nothing else known)
So they gave their bodies to the Commonwealth and received, each with his own memory, praise that will never die, and with it the greatest of all sepulchres, not that in which their mortal bones are laid, but a home in the minds of men, where their glory remains fresh to stir to speech or to actions as the occasion comes by."
Thucydides, describing the funeral oration of Pericles in his 'History of the Peloponnesian War, 431-413 B.C’.
Thucydides, describing the funeral oration of Pericles in his 'History of the Peloponnesian War, 431-413 B.C’.
So they passed over, and all the trumpets sounded for them on the other side.
From “Pilgrim's Progress” by John Bunyan.
From “Pilgrim's Progress” by John Bunyan.
Son of the carpenter, receive
This humble work of mine :
Worth to my meanest labour give
By joining it to Thine.
First line of hymn by Charles Wesley in 'Hymns and Poems' 1737
This humble work of mine :
Worth to my meanest labour give
By joining it to Thine.
First line of hymn by Charles Wesley in 'Hymns and Poems' 1737
Sons of this place let this of you be said
That you who live are worthy of your dead
These gave their lives that you who live may reap
A richer harvest ere you fall asleep.
Revd .T.F. Royds B.D., 1880-1964. "Inscriptions suggested for War Memorials" (Victoria and Albert Museum, HMSO, London, 1919, page 25)
Information kindly provided by Anne Brook.
That you who live are worthy of your dead
These gave their lives that you who live may reap
A richer harvest ere you fall asleep.
Revd .T.F. Royds B.D., 1880-1964. "Inscriptions suggested for War Memorials" (Victoria and Albert Museum, HMSO, London, 1919, page 25)
Information kindly provided by Anne Brook.
Splendour of men, death laughed at, death defied.
Co.-Sgt.-Maj. W.H. Littlejohn. (Nothing else known)
Co.-Sgt.-Maj. W.H. Littlejohn. (Nothing else known)
Stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
I Corinthians 16:13
I Corinthians 16:13
Steadfast in life, valiant in death.
Steadfast unto death.
Hymn: "Heavenly Father, send thy blessing" Christopher Wordworth, 1863.
Hymn: "Heavenly Father, send thy blessing" Christopher Wordworth, 1863.
Stern yet sweet call of duty . . .
School song.
“Stern yet sweet her call of duty,
Pointing our the path we trod
‘Twas the path that leads to honour,
‘Twas the path that leads to God”.
Found in Gateshead St.Wilfrid’s Church, G39.82
School song.
“Stern yet sweet her call of duty,
Pointing our the path we trod
‘Twas the path that leads to honour,
‘Twas the path that leads to God”.
Found in Gateshead St.Wilfrid’s Church, G39.82
Strew your gladness on earth’s bed,
So be merry, so be dead.
From "All the hills and vales along" by Capt. Charles Hamilton Sorley, Suffolk Regt.
So be merry, so be dead.
From "All the hills and vales along" by Capt. Charles Hamilton Sorley, Suffolk Regt.
Sure winged at last and free
Full fledged eternally
in God's Royal Flying Corps
On the gravemarker of a Flying Cadet in Old Bewick Churchyard, Northumberland
Full fledged eternally
in God's Royal Flying Corps
On the gravemarker of a Flying Cadet in Old Bewick Churchyard, Northumberland
Sursum corda ("Lift up your hearts")
First line of hymn. Songs of Praise No. 560 by H. Montagu Butler 1833-1918.
First line of hymn. Songs of Praise No. 560 by H. Montagu Butler 1833-1918.
Thanks be to God which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians 15 v 57.
First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians 15 v 57.
That you may tell your sons that see the light:
"Between Midnight and morning (December 1914)" : Sir Owen Seaman.
You that have faith to look with fearless eyes
Beyond the tragedy of a world at strife,
And trust that out of night and death shall rise
The dawn of ampler life;
Rejoice, whatever anguish rend your heart,
That God has given you, for a priceless dower,
To live in these great times and have your part
In Freedom’s crowning hour.
That you may tell your sons who see the light
High in the heaven their heritage to take:-
"I saw the powers of darkness put to flight!
I saw the morning break!"
"Between Midnight and morning (December 1914)" : Sir Owen Seaman.
You that have faith to look with fearless eyes
Beyond the tragedy of a world at strife,
And trust that out of night and death shall rise
The dawn of ampler life;
Rejoice, whatever anguish rend your heart,
That God has given you, for a priceless dower,
To live in these great times and have your part
In Freedom’s crowning hour.
That you may tell your sons who see the light
High in the heaven their heritage to take:-
"I saw the powers of darkness put to flight!
I saw the morning break!"
The Glorious Dead
Chosen by Lutyens to be placed on the Cenotaph to be simple, and apparently intended to mean what the onlooker wanted it to mean. In his will, Lutyens stated that nothing should be added or removed from his design.
Chosen by Lutyens to be placed on the Cenotaph to be simple, and apparently intended to mean what the onlooker wanted it to mean. In his will, Lutyens stated that nothing should be added or removed from his design.
The Heroic Dead
The Lord Almighty knoweth that we fight a just battle for the safety of our nation.
Attributed to St.Oswald, presumably before the Battle of Heavenfield c634 A.D.
Attributed to St.Oswald, presumably before the Battle of Heavenfield c634 A.D.
The Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest
Joshua 1 v 9
Joshua 1 v 9
The Lord will give strength to his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace
Psalm 29 v 11
Psalm 29 v 11
The Noble Army of Martyrs Praise Thee, O Lord.
Te Deum: Book of Common Prayer 1662.
The Unreturned Brave. Is this the best crossbow for hunting?
Quoted from “Childe Harolde” by Lord Byron: “He is buried with those who fought and died with him, the unreturning brave".
Quoted from “Childe Harolde” by Lord Byron: “He is buried with those who fought and died with him, the unreturning brave".
The blood of heroes is the seed of freedom
Thomas Campbell 1777-1844. “The patriot's blood is the seed of freedom's tree”. Found also at Victoria Park Widnes and St Mary's RC Church, Dukinfield, Tameside
Thomas Campbell 1777-1844. “The patriot's blood is the seed of freedom's tree”. Found also at Victoria Park Widnes and St Mary's RC Church, Dukinfield, Tameside
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.
Deuteronomy 33 v 27
Deuteronomy 33 v 27
The hand of the reaper takes the ears that are hoary
But the voice of the weeper wails manhood in glory
First four lines of second stanza of 'Coronach', bewailing the death of Duncan. Sir Walter Scott.
But the voice of the weeper wails manhood in glory
First four lines of second stanza of 'Coronach', bewailing the death of Duncan. Sir Walter Scott.
The hands of peace drop benison
When the task of death is through.
Lieut. Thomas M. Kettle, Dublin Fusiliers.
When the task of death is through.
Lieut. Thomas M. Kettle, Dublin Fusiliers.
The hours that feed on war go heavy-hearted.
"Optimism" Lieut. A. Ratcliffe, West Yorks Regt.
"Optimism" Lieut. A. Ratcliffe, West Yorks Regt.
The immortal dead
"Oh may I join the choir invisible" George Eliot 1867.
"Oh may I join the choir invisible" George Eliot 1867.
The memory of their sacrifice is dear to us.
The men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, they were a wall unto us both by night and by day.
1 Samuel XXV 15, 16
1 Samuel XXV 15, 16
The paths of glory lead but to the grave
Elegy written in a Country Churchyard - Thomas Gray
Elegy written in a Country Churchyard - Thomas Gray
The peace of God which passeth all understanding keep them for evermore.
Paul's Epistle to Philemon 4 v 7
Paul's Epistle to Philemon 4 v 7
The self devoted came
who rushed to die, without reply
for duty not for fame.
The soul of life is in the will to give
The best of life in willing sacrifice
The Dead: A Requiem .June 1915. Sgt. J. W. Streets
The best of life in willing sacrifice
The Dead: A Requiem .June 1915. Sgt. J. W. Streets
The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God.
Apocrypha. Wisdom of Solomon 3 v 1
The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.
And no torment shall touch them.
In the eye of the foolish, they seem to have died;
And their departure was accounted to be their hurt;
And their journeying away from us to be their ruin.
But they are in peace.
For even in the sight of men they be punished.
Their hope is full of immortality.
And having borne a little chastening, they shall receive great good;
Because God hath made trial of them
And found them worthy of Himself.
Apocrypha. Wisdom of Solomon 3 v 1
The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.
And no torment shall touch them.
In the eye of the foolish, they seem to have died;
And their departure was accounted to be their hurt;
And their journeying away from us to be their ruin.
But they are in peace.
For even in the sight of men they be punished.
Their hope is full of immortality.
And having borne a little chastening, they shall receive great good;
Because God hath made trial of them
And found them worthy of Himself.
The wearied hearts and the broken lives -
At home! At ease!
Lieut. W.L. Wilkinson. (Nothing else known)
At home! At ease!
Lieut. W.L. Wilkinson. (Nothing else known)
Their bright spirits still tenant the hearts of those who loved them. They lie imperishably fair, crowned with the garlands of immortal youth.
Field Marshal Lord French
"Of those who went out with such high hopes to perish in the trenches, or lie buried far away in a nameless grave, it is a mistake to say they never re-turn. They never really left; their bright spirits still tenant the hearts of those who loved them. They lie imperishably fair, crowned with the garland of immortal youth."
Field Marshal Lord French
"Of those who went out with such high hopes to perish in the trenches, or lie buried far away in a nameless grave, it is a mistake to say they never re-turn. They never really left; their bright spirits still tenant the hearts of those who loved them. They lie imperishably fair, crowned with the garland of immortal youth."
Their deeds live after them.
Their eyes are rid
Of the hurt of the colour of blood for ever.
Of the hurt of the colour of blood for ever.
Insensibility Stanza III Wilfred Owen.
Their inheritance endureth for ever, and their glory shall not be blotted out.
See "Let us now praise famous men"
See "Let us now praise famous men"
Their life a lasting memory and their absence a silent grief.
Quoted in a list of suggested tributes by the Central England Co-operative.
Their lives for their country, their souls to God.
Their lot the Glorious Price to pay
Ours to record with grateful Pride
That Freedom lives on earth today
Because they Died.
Ours to record with grateful Pride
That Freedom lives on earth today
Because they Died.
Their name liveth for evermore.
Apocrypha. Book of Ecclesiasticus 44 v 1-15
"Let us now praise famous men"
This was chosen by Rudyard Kipling to be incised onto the altar which is inside war cemeteries. The quotation includes the words: "And some there be which have no memorial, who are perished as though they had never been . . . Their bodies are buried in peace, but their name liveth for evermore". Was Kipling thinking of his own son, John, killed at the Battle of Loos and whose body was never found?
Apocrypha. Book of Ecclesiasticus 44 v 1-15
"Let us now praise famous men"
This was chosen by Rudyard Kipling to be incised onto the altar which is inside war cemeteries. The quotation includes the words: "And some there be which have no memorial, who are perished as though they had never been . . . Their bodies are buried in peace, but their name liveth for evermore". Was Kipling thinking of his own son, John, killed at the Battle of Loos and whose body was never found?
Their name liveth on in generations.
Based on Psalm 45 v 17
Based on Psalm 45 v 17
Their names shall be their monument.
Their reward is with the Lord and the care of them with the Most High.
Apocrypha, Wisdom 5 v 16
"The righteous live forever, and their reward is with the Lord; the Most High takes care of them. Therefore they will receive a glorious crown and a beautiful diadem from the hand of the Lord, because with his right hand he will cover them, and with his arm he will shield them. The Lord will take his zeal as his whole armour, and will arm all creation to repel his enemies; he will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and wear impartial justice as a helmet; he will take holiness as an invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath for a sword, and creation will join with him to fight against his frenzied foes."
Apocrypha, Wisdom 5 v 16
"The righteous live forever, and their reward is with the Lord; the Most High takes care of them. Therefore they will receive a glorious crown and a beautiful diadem from the hand of the Lord, because with his right hand he will cover them, and with his arm he will shield them. The Lord will take his zeal as his whole armour, and will arm all creation to repel his enemies; he will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and wear impartial justice as a helmet; he will take holiness as an invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath for a sword, and creation will join with him to fight against his frenzied foes."
There is no wealth but life.
from Unto this last, an essay on economy by John Ruskin. 1860.
from Unto this last, an essay on economy by John Ruskin. 1860.
There's but one gift that all other dead desire
“Peace and Goodwill” 1932, Alfred Noyes.
There's but one gift that all other dead desire
One gift that man can give - and that's a dream-
Of sacrifice, die to the things that seem:
Unless we too can burn with that same fire.
And since they died before their task was finished
Attempt new heights! Bring e 'en their dreams to birth!
By one true splendour that they glimpsed on earth.
Build us that better world. Oh, not diminished.
Die to the little hatreds, die to greed,
Die to the old ignoble selves we knew,
Die to the base contempts of sect and creed
And rise again like them, with souls as true.
And that's not done by sword, or tongue, or pen,
There's but one way. God make us better men.
“Peace and Goodwill” 1932, Alfred Noyes.
There's but one gift that all other dead desire
One gift that man can give - and that's a dream-
Of sacrifice, die to the things that seem:
Unless we too can burn with that same fire.
And since they died before their task was finished
Attempt new heights! Bring e 'en their dreams to birth!
By one true splendour that they glimpsed on earth.
Build us that better world. Oh, not diminished.
Die to the little hatreds, die to greed,
Die to the old ignoble selves we knew,
Die to the base contempts of sect and creed
And rise again like them, with souls as true.
And that's not done by sword, or tongue, or pen,
There's but one way. God make us better men.
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them from afar.
Letter to the Hebrews 11 v 13
Letter to the Hebrews 11 v 13
These are they which came out of great tribulation
Book of Revelation 7 v 14
Book of Revelation 7 v 14
These laid the world away; poured out the red
Sweet wine of youth; gave up the years to be
Of work and joy, and that unhoped serene
That men call age.
"For The Dead", Rupert Brooke. “Blow out, you bugles, over the rich dead".
Newcastle NER (NUT010)
Sweet wine of youth; gave up the years to be
Of work and joy, and that unhoped serene
That men call age.
"For The Dead", Rupert Brooke. “Blow out, you bugles, over the rich dead".
Newcastle NER (NUT010)
These men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time.
Adapted from "A Psalm of Life"; Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1838. First line should read: "Lives of great men all remind us"
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time.
Adapted from "A Psalm of Life"; Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1838. First line should read: "Lives of great men all remind us"
These men of ours, at the call of King and Country, left all that was dear to them, endured hardness, faced danger and finally passed out of the sight of men by the path of duty and self-sacrifice, giving up their own lives that others might live in freedom. Let those who come after see to it that their names are not forgotten.
See “He whom this scroll commemorates” from which this has been adapted.
See “He whom this scroll commemorates” from which this has been adapted.
These men of ours, unselfish, unafraid,
Went to the world wide fight
For England and the right
Forget not how they fought and how we prayed”
Went to the world wide fight
For England and the right
Forget not how they fought and how we prayed”
These through the gate of sacrifice entered a greater kingdom
Adapted from "The Divine Companion: The Second Prophecy, called The Messiah" by James Allen 1864-1912
Adapted from "The Divine Companion: The Second Prophecy, called The Messiah" by James Allen 1864-1912
They answered the call of duty,
They sleep among the brave,
They sacrificed their precious lives
Our British homes to save”.
They sleep among the brave,
They sacrificed their precious lives
Our British homes to save”.
They are crowned with the garland of immortality
They are the world’s truest and noblest sons who act the noblest.
They braved the night of battle
They did not see the dawn.
They did not see the dawn.
They climbed the steep ascent to heaven through sorrow, toil and pain.
Hymn: 'The Son of God Goes Forth to War', by Reginald Heber, 1783-1826. "They climbed the steep ascent to Heaven, mid peril, toil and pain. O God, to us may Grace be given to follow in their train."
This is based on Apocrypha: Wisdom of Solomon 3 vs 1-3 See “The souls of the righteous”
Hymn: 'The Son of God Goes Forth to War', by Reginald Heber, 1783-1826. "They climbed the steep ascent to Heaven, mid peril, toil and pain. O God, to us may Grace be given to follow in their train."
This is based on Apocrypha: Wisdom of Solomon 3 vs 1-3 See “The souls of the righteous”
They crowded all their youth into an hour
and for one fleeting dream of right they died
Poem by Alfred Noyes as follows:
Make firm, O God, the peace our dead have won
For folly shakes the tinsel on its head,
And points us back to darkness and to hell,
Cackling, "Beware of visions," while our dead
Still cry, "It was for visions that we fell."
They never knew the secret game of power,
All that this earth can give they thrust aside,
They crowded all their youth unto an hour,
And for one fleeting dream of right, they died.
"Oh, if we fail them in that awful trust,
How should we bear those voices from the dust?
and for one fleeting dream of right they died
Poem by Alfred Noyes as follows:
Make firm, O God, the peace our dead have won
For folly shakes the tinsel on its head,
And points us back to darkness and to hell,
Cackling, "Beware of visions," while our dead
Still cry, "It was for visions that we fell."
They never knew the secret game of power,
All that this earth can give they thrust aside,
They crowded all their youth unto an hour,
And for one fleeting dream of right, they died.
"Oh, if we fail them in that awful trust,
How should we bear those voices from the dust?
They died for home and freedom.
They died that we might live
From the poem “Hail! and Farewell!” by John Oxenham, quoted in his book of poems "All's Well", published by Methuen and Co. Ltd., first published November 1915.
From the poem “Hail! and Farewell!” by John Oxenham, quoted in his book of poems "All's Well", published by Methuen and Co. Ltd., first published November 1915.
They died the noblest death a man may die,
Fighting for God, and Right, and Liberty:-
And such a death is Immortality
"To You Who Have Lost" by John Oxenham, quoted in his book of poems "All's Well", published by Methuen and Co. Ltd., first published November 1915. "He died the noblest death . . ."
Fighting for God, and Right, and Liberty:-
And such a death is Immortality
"To You Who Have Lost" by John Oxenham, quoted in his book of poems "All's Well", published by Methuen and Co. Ltd., first published November 1915. "He died the noblest death . . ."
They died to rescue other lands
And keep our homes secure.
And keep our homes secure.
They endured hardness as good Soldiers of Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 2 v 3: "Thou therefore endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ".
2 Timothy 2 v 3: "Thou therefore endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ".
They for freedom gave their best.
They gave their all.
They gave their lives for their country, their souls to God and their names to posterity.
They gave their lives for us.
They gave their lives that England's soul should live
They gave themselves. A Sacrifice.
They had learned to play the game, and they played it to the end.
A possible reference to the line “Play up, Play up and play the game” from the poem 'Vita Lampada' by Sir Henry Newbolt.
An alternative is the poem "The Game" by Claude Burton commemorating the episode during the Battle of Somme when the Commander of the East Surrey Regiment organised his men to advance as if they were playing football.
The idea of "playing the game" occurs in several speeches and other instances.
A possible reference to the line “Play up, Play up and play the game” from the poem 'Vita Lampada' by Sir Henry Newbolt.
An alternative is the poem "The Game" by Claude Burton commemorating the episode during the Battle of Somme when the Commander of the East Surrey Regiment organised his men to advance as if they were playing football.
The idea of "playing the game" occurs in several speeches and other instances.
They have but followed whither duty led,
To find a fuller life.
Lieut. Arthur Lewis Jenkins, R.F.C.
Simon Cooper has provided the following information:
Arthur Lewis Jenkins played rugby at Rosslyn Park. "He was a poet, with The Forlorn Adventurer being his most noted collection. The lines you feature come from a poem The Happy Warriors which I have not yet tracked down in any anthology/collection, but is printed in The Pals at Suvla Bay, being the record of "D" Company of the 7th Royal Dublin Fusiliers; Henry Hanna; E.Ponsonby Ltd., Dublin; 1916.
Jenkins was an RFC pilot killed in a flying accident on New Year’s Eve 1917 while stationed in Lincs/Yorks."
To find a fuller life.
Lieut. Arthur Lewis Jenkins, R.F.C.
Simon Cooper has provided the following information:
Arthur Lewis Jenkins played rugby at Rosslyn Park. "He was a poet, with The Forlorn Adventurer being his most noted collection. The lines you feature come from a poem The Happy Warriors which I have not yet tracked down in any anthology/collection, but is printed in The Pals at Suvla Bay, being the record of "D" Company of the 7th Royal Dublin Fusiliers; Henry Hanna; E.Ponsonby Ltd., Dublin; 1916.
Jenkins was an RFC pilot killed in a flying accident on New Year’s Eve 1917 while stationed in Lincs/Yorks."
They have gone the second mile:
Possibly based on Gospel of St.Matthew 5:41 “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain”.
Joyce Newton says: "The school's motto was 'Go the second mile.' There was a school song that incorporated this." This is A.J. Dawson School, Wingate.
Possibly based on Gospel of St.Matthew 5:41 “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain”.
Joyce Newton says: "The school's motto was 'Go the second mile.' There was a school song that incorporated this." This is A.J. Dawson School, Wingate.
They have outsoared the shadow of our night
“Adonais” Percy Bysshe Shelley. ('He has outsoared the shadow of our night')
“Adonais” Percy Bysshe Shelley. ('He has outsoared the shadow of our night')
They have the gleam of the light divine
The loss and the loneliness are mine.
Pte. Herbert Nicholas Todd, Queen’s Westminsters.
The loss and the loneliness are mine.
Pte. Herbert Nicholas Todd, Queen’s Westminsters.
They jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field.
Judges 5 v 18
Judges 5 v 18
They loved not their lives unto the death.
The Book of Revelation 12 v 11
The Book of Revelation 12 v 11
They never die, who give their lives in a great cause.
They offered themselves a sacrifice.
Possibly based on Ephesians 5 v 2: “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us. and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour”.
Possibly based on Ephesians 5 v 2: “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us. and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour”.
They rest from their labours.
See "I heard a voice from Heaven"
See "I heard a voice from Heaven"
They serve him day and night in his temple.
The Book of Revelation 7 v 15
The Book of Revelation 7 v 15
They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn;
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning
We will remember them.
From “For the Fallen”, by Laurence Binyon.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn;
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning
We will remember them.
From “For the Fallen”, by Laurence Binyon.
They shall mount up with wings as eagles.
Isaiah 40 v 31: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint".
Isaiah 40 v 31: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint".
They shall walk with Me in white, For they are worthy.
The Book of Revelation 3 v 4
The Book of Revelation 3 v 4
They sought the honour of their Country. they beheld the Glory of God.
They that put aside today
All the joys of their today
And with toil of their today
Bought for us tomorrow.
Stalky & Co. Rudyard Kipling. "Let us now praise famous men . . ."
All the joys of their today
And with toil of their today
Bought for us tomorrow.
Stalky & Co. Rudyard Kipling. "Let us now praise famous men . . ."
They through the gate of sacrifice entered a greater kingdom
They trod the path of Him upon the Rood, perfect in one great act of sacrifice.
They went counting not the cost, and returned not, that we might live.
They were lovely and pleasant in their lives and in death they were not divided.
2 Samuel 1 v 23. The story of David and Jonathon
2 Samuel 1 v 23. The story of David and Jonathon
Thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty, they shall behold the land that is very far off.
Isaiah 33 v 17
Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory . . .
1 Chronicles 29 v 11.
1 Chronicles 29 v 11.
This have I done for you.
Domenico Feti painting titled Ecce Homo, "Behold the Man." It portrays the crucified Christ with the legend, "This have I done for you - Now what will you do for me?"
Domenico Feti painting titled Ecce Homo, "Behold the Man." It portrays the crucified Christ with the legend, "This have I done for you - Now what will you do for me?"
This steadfast soldier heart was not
For this brief life alone.
Tis as a soldier he will stand
Before the Great White Throne.
For this brief life alone.
Tis as a soldier he will stand
Before the Great White Throne.
Those who lived and those who died
They were one in Noble Pride;
Britons, Britons, Britons are they . . .
Britons every one!
John Oxenham.
They were one in Noble Pride;
Britons, Britons, Britons are they . . .
Britons every one!
John Oxenham.
Those who with fame eternal their own dear land endowed
Took on them as a mantle the shade of death's dark cloud;
Yet dying thus they died not, on whom is glory shed
By virtue which exalts them above all other dead. -
Sir James Rennell Rodd (1858-1941)
Took on them as a mantle the shade of death's dark cloud;
Yet dying thus they died not, on whom is glory shed
By virtue which exalts them above all other dead. -
Sir James Rennell Rodd (1858-1941)
Thou for thyself a Peace has won
The bundle of thy life laid down.
Lance-Corpl. Joseph Lee, 1/4th Black Watch
He wrote a book called “Ballads of Battle” illustrated by his own sketches. His story is told in “Fighter Writer” by Bob Burrows. Lee was known as “the Black Watch poet”. He also wrote “Work-a-Day Warriors”.
The bundle of thy life laid down.
Lance-Corpl. Joseph Lee, 1/4th Black Watch
He wrote a book called “Ballads of Battle” illustrated by his own sketches. His story is told in “Fighter Writer” by Bob Burrows. Lee was known as “the Black Watch poet”. He also wrote “Work-a-Day Warriors”.
Thou hast covered my head in battle
Psalm 140:7.
Thou wilt keep them in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee.
Isaiah 26 v 3
Isaiah 26 v 3
Thy Brother shall rise again
John 11: 23. The story of the raising of Lazarus.
John 11: 23. The story of the raising of Lazarus.
Thy Will be done:
Gospels of Matthew 6 v 10; Luke 11 v 2. Also Matthew 26 v 42.
Gospels of Matthew 6 v 10; Luke 11 v 2. Also Matthew 26 v 42.
To Liberty their heritage they gave
And won immortal glory at the grave.
Sgt. John William Streets, Yorks & Lancs Regt.
And won immortal glory at the grave.
Sgt. John William Streets, Yorks & Lancs Regt.
To live in loving hearts we leave behind is not to die.
'Hallowed ground'. Thomas Campbell. 1777-1884
'Hallowed ground'. Thomas Campbell. 1777-1884
To the glory of Almighty God, the only giver of Victory.
Book of Common Prayer
Book of Common Prayer
To the world a soldier, to us the world.
Also found on the headstone of A.L. Bayliss, Royal Army Service Corps, died 2nd June 1947 aged 19, in the English Military Graveyard in Asmara, Eritrea. Information provided by Claus Christensen, Denmark.
Also quoted in Hong Kong, in one of the Happy Valley Cemeteries, on a CWG headstone of a man who died in the 1960s. It is thought the quotation is slightly different, possibly being "To the world he was but one, to us he was all the world". Information from John and Mavis Dixon
Also found on the headstone of A.L. Bayliss, Royal Army Service Corps, died 2nd June 1947 aged 19, in the English Military Graveyard in Asmara, Eritrea. Information provided by Claus Christensen, Denmark.
Also quoted in Hong Kong, in one of the Happy Valley Cemeteries, on a CWG headstone of a man who died in the 1960s. It is thought the quotation is slightly different, possibly being "To the world he was but one, to us he was all the world". Information from John and Mavis Dixon
True love by life - True love by Death is tried.
Live thou for England! - We for England died.
Found at Frosterley, and also at: - Winsham, Bideford, Tormanton, Friskney, Hele's school, Sandbach - Cheshire; Herringswell, Sandhurst Church - Glos.; Great Chishill - Essex; Astwood - Bucks; Chedworth - Glos.; Littledean; Saddleworth, Lancs.;
It was also used in Victoria Road Congregational Church, Newport, "which is in Wales … although at the time of the First World War it was “Wales and Monmouthshire”, and many people regarded themselves as English rather than Welsh". (Phillip C. Stallard)
Live thou for England! - We for England died.
Found at Frosterley, and also at: - Winsham, Bideford, Tormanton, Friskney, Hele's school, Sandbach - Cheshire; Herringswell, Sandhurst Church - Glos.; Great Chishill - Essex; Astwood - Bucks; Chedworth - Glos.; Littledean; Saddleworth, Lancs.;
It was also used in Victoria Road Congregational Church, Newport, "which is in Wales … although at the time of the First World War it was “Wales and Monmouthshire”, and many people regarded themselves as English rather than Welsh". (Phillip C. Stallard)
True unto Death.
Quoted on Wolviston Cricket Memorial Cup W129.06
Quoted on Wolviston Cricket Memorial Cup W129.06
Under the wide and starry sky,
Dig the grave and let me lie.
Glad did I live and gladly die,
And I laid me down with a will.
This be the verse ye grave for me,
Here I lie as I'd wish to be;
Home is the sailor, home from the sea,
And the hunter home from the hill.
Robert Louis Stevenson.
Misquoted - possibly deliberately - on a memorial at Seaton Delaval. The poem reads - “Here he lies where he longed to be; Home is the sailor, home from sea, ”
Dig the grave and let me lie.
Glad did I live and gladly die,
And I laid me down with a will.
This be the verse ye grave for me,
Here I lie as I'd wish to be;
Home is the sailor, home from the sea,
And the hunter home from the hill.
Robert Louis Stevenson.
Misquoted - possibly deliberately - on a memorial at Seaton Delaval. The poem reads - “Here he lies where he longed to be; Home is the sailor, home from sea, ”
Unrecognised, you put us in your debt
Unthanked, you enter or escape the grave.
Whether your land remember or forget
You saved the land, or died trying to save.
"For all Seafarers", John Masefield, Poet Laureate.
Unthanked, you enter or escape the grave.
Whether your land remember or forget
You saved the land, or died trying to save.
"For all Seafarers", John Masefield, Poet Laureate.
Until the day break and the shadows flee away.
Song of Solomon 2 v 17, 4 v 6.
Song of Solomon 2 v 17, 4 v 6.
Upon The Crucified One look
And Thou Shalt Read As In A Book
What Well Is Worth Thy Learning.
From 'Knitting A Conundrum' Translated from the Latin by John M. Neale.
From a hymn by John Mason Neale - “O Sinner, lift the eye of Faith”.
"O sinner, lift the eye of faith,
To true repentance turning;
Bethink thee of the curse of sin,
Its awful guilt discerning;
Upon the Crucified One look,
And thou shalt read, as in a book,
What well is worth thy learning. "
And Thou Shalt Read As In A Book
What Well Is Worth Thy Learning.
From 'Knitting A Conundrum' Translated from the Latin by John M. Neale.
From a hymn by John Mason Neale - “O Sinner, lift the eye of Faith”.
"O sinner, lift the eye of faith,
To true repentance turning;
Bethink thee of the curse of sin,
Its awful guilt discerning;
Upon the Crucified One look,
And thou shalt read, as in a book,
What well is worth thy learning. "
We are the dead for England slain.
Lieut. Walter Lightowler Wilkinson, Argyll & Suth.Hdrs. (Nothing else known)
Lieut. Walter Lightowler Wilkinson, Argyll & Suth.Hdrs. (Nothing else known)
We are the dead. If ye break faith with us who die, We shall not sleep.
Adapted from “In Flanders Fields”, by John McRae.
Adapted from “In Flanders Fields”, by John McRae.
We bow before the flower of youth whose bloom
In fields eternal triumphs o’er the tomb.
Source not known.
In fields eternal triumphs o’er the tomb.
Source not known.
We have arrived at victory and to day they have their reward.
See "By the long road they trod"
See "By the long road they trod"
We know that they have passed from death unto life.
I John 3 v 14
I John 3 v 14
We loved them in life, let us honour them in death
We partake the heroic favours of giving and again giving.
Acting-Capt. Charles John Beech Masefield, M.C., North Staffs Regt. (Nothing else known)
Acting-Capt. Charles John Beech Masefield, M.C., North Staffs Regt. (Nothing else known)
We pray that these may in God's keeping be,
Now and forever till war's shadows flee.
Also found in Pulgar, Leicestershire.
Now and forever till war's shadows flee.
Also found in Pulgar, Leicestershire.
Well done thou good and faithful servant.
Gospel of St.Matthew 25 v 21
Gospel of St.Matthew 25 v 21
Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might
Ecclesiastes 9 v 10
Ecclesiastes 9 v 10
When I awake up . . .
Psalm 17 v 15: "As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness."
Psalm 17 v 15: "As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness."
When you go home, tell them of us and say
For your tomorrow we gave our today.
Written after the Great War by John Maxwell Edmonds (1875-1958) but most famously quoted on the memorial at Kohima, Burma
Suggested by Major John Etty-Leal, and thought to be based on the Greek Simonides who wrote after the Battle of Thermopylae: Go tell the Spartans, thou that passest by / That faithful to their precepts here we lie". Compare with "They that put aside today"
For your tomorrow we gave our today.
Written after the Great War by John Maxwell Edmonds (1875-1958) but most famously quoted on the memorial at Kohima, Burma
Suggested by Major John Etty-Leal, and thought to be based on the Greek Simonides who wrote after the Battle of Thermopylae: Go tell the Spartans, thou that passest by / That faithful to their precepts here we lie". Compare with "They that put aside today"
Wherever and for as long as freedom flourishes on the earth, the men and women who possess it will thank them and will say they did not die in vain . . .Indeed the heroism of each will be remembered for as long as this memorial shall stand.
From a speech made by Queen Elizabeth II when unveiling the RAF memorial at Runnymede on 17th October 1953.
From a speech made by Queen Elizabeth II when unveiling the RAF memorial at Runnymede on 17th October 1953.
Who dies if England live?
“For all we have and are”. Rudyard Kipling.
“For all we have and are”. Rudyard Kipling.
Who knows how my end may be?
Hymn by Aemilie Juliane 1637 - Lutheran Hymnal 544
Hymn by Aemilie Juliane 1637 - Lutheran Hymnal 544
Who nobly striving, nobly fell.
From the poem "For the Men at the Front" by John Oxenham, ("Who nobly striving, nobly fall") quoted in his book of poems "All's Well", published by Methuen and Co. Ltd., first published November 1915. Also found in the poem ""Hail! and Farewell" by the same author in the same book.
Also found on the Adelaide State War Memorial, Australia, Beaumont-cum-Moze - Essex, and at Placentia, Newfoundland where the Memorial includes the full verse as follows:-
HAIL AND FAREWELL
"They died that we might live."
Hail! and farewell!
All Honour give
To those who nobly striving, nobly fell
That we might live
That we might live, they died,
Hail! and farewell!
Their courage tried
By every mean device of treacherous hate,
Like kings they died.
Eternal honour give,
Hail! and farewell!
To those who died
In the full splendour of heroic pride,
That we might live
From the poem "For the Men at the Front" by John Oxenham, ("Who nobly striving, nobly fall") quoted in his book of poems "All's Well", published by Methuen and Co. Ltd., first published November 1915. Also found in the poem ""Hail! and Farewell" by the same author in the same book.
Also found on the Adelaide State War Memorial, Australia, Beaumont-cum-Moze - Essex, and at Placentia, Newfoundland where the Memorial includes the full verse as follows:-
HAIL AND FAREWELL
"They died that we might live."
Hail! and farewell!
All Honour give
To those who nobly striving, nobly fell
That we might live
That we might live, they died,
Hail! and farewell!
Their courage tried
By every mean device of treacherous hate,
Like kings they died.
Eternal honour give,
Hail! and farewell!
To those who died
In the full splendour of heroic pride,
That we might live
Who promotes his country's welfare best proves his duty.
Based on "Our country's welfare is our first concern: He who promotes that best, best proves his duty." Harvard's 'Regulus'
Based on "Our country's welfare is our first concern: He who promotes that best, best proves his duty." Harvard's 'Regulus'
Who, then, of judgment is afraid?
Major John B.Stewart, M.C., (Nothing else known)
Major John B.Stewart, M.C., (Nothing else known)
Why do they call, sonny, why do they call,
For men who are brave and strong?
“Fall In”; Harold Begbie - Poem from 1914, used by the “White Feather Brigade”.
For men who are brave and strong?
“Fall In”; Harold Begbie - Poem from 1914, used by the “White Feather Brigade”.
With Christ which is far better
Epistle of Paul to the Philippians 1 v 23
Epistle of Paul to the Philippians 1 v 23
With proud thanksgiving let us remember our elder brethren"
The words "With proud thanksgiving" immediately take us to Binyon's "For the Fallen".
In one or two instances, the above sentence precedes the famous verse "They shall grow not old", particularly in Toc H services
The words "With proud thanksgiving" immediately take us to Binyon's "For the Fallen".
In one or two instances, the above sentence precedes the famous verse "They shall grow not old", particularly in Toc H services
With proud thanksgiving let us remember our elder brethren.
Possibly using the first words from Binyon's poem “For the Fallen” which starts “With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children”
Possibly using the first words from Binyon's poem “For the Fallen” which starts “With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children”
Ye shall receive power.
Acts of the Apostles 1 v 8
Acts of the Apostles 1 v 8
Ye that have escaped the sword - remember the Lord.
Jeremiah 51.50. Ye that have escaped the sword go away, stand not still: remember the Lord afar off, and let Jerusalem come into your mind.
Jeremiah 51.50. Ye that have escaped the sword go away, stand not still: remember the Lord afar off, and let Jerusalem come into your mind.
Ye that live on mid England's pastures green,
Remember us, and think what might have been.
Also found in: Great Barrington - Glos. Stiffby - Norfolk, Greenford - Ealing, East Brent, Macclesfield Town Hall, and Sopworth - Wiltshire.
Remember us, and think what might have been.
Also found in: Great Barrington - Glos. Stiffby - Norfolk, Greenford - Ealing, East Brent, Macclesfield Town Hall, and Sopworth - Wiltshire.
Your kind shall die, and sweeter days be born
Lieut. A. Victor Ratcliffe. (Nothing else known)
Lieut. A. Victor Ratcliffe. (Nothing else known)
Youth only reaches greatness when he dies
In fullest prime that love and truth may live
The Dead: A Requiem. June 1917. Sgt. J. W. Streets
In fullest prime that love and truth may live
The Dead: A Requiem. June 1917. Sgt. J. W. Streets
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