On this Memorial Day our thoughts go out to all those living and dead who made our country the greatest place on earth to live. This is a poem written by my great-uncle in memory of his young son who was killed in WWII. Pfc. James Harry Duffield, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo W. Duffield was born September 25, 1925 and was killed in action in Belgium, January 15, 1945. He was a grduate of Garden Grove High School with the class of 1942. James received his initial training at Camp Fannin where he specialized in radio. He was sent overseas, landing in England in October, 1944. From England he was sent to France and finally to Belgium. OUR JAMES by Leo Duffield Suppose he had said, "I can't be spared, I am needed at home," And never dared To repond so bravely To his country's call? Just like so many Who have not gone at all. Let's suppose that he Had had no pride, And had petitioned To be reclassified? Suppose he had thought Of himself alone And not of others, How could he atone? But remains the question, Who'd have taken his place? And just how, in fact, Would it alter the case? But No. OUR SON Had a noble heart. He was ready and willing To do his part. He shouldered his burden With a smile; It was nothing unusual It was just his style He was never known To rebel or lag. Moreover, he cherished His country's flag. He lived and died For his fellow man, Although why so abrupt We don't understand. We do get comfort In this thought, That he did his duty As he felt he ought. And that through the maze It is plain to see, He's gone back to God For all eternity. Just why such things Should have to be, In a home called brave And a land called free, Is beyond human power To comprehend or see, Though we hope and pray To be as brave as he. Realizing the while, We shall meet nevermore Until the judgment day, On the blissful shore. So the answer is simple, That his race he has run, As to taking his place--- Now, it cannot be done. His Commander had ordered, "Thou shalt not kill." To vindicate our brave hero, Later said, "Peace, be still." So the thought is consoling And so easily gleaned, For his Supreme Commander In his behalf intervened. So he answered the Beacon, All it took was a nod, He is still in the army, But the army of God. Yes, our boy's been promoted, Due to God's infinite love, He's been made a lieutenant In the mansions above. He is worthy of honor, For he had lots of pride, It was God's rewarding merit, That he's been reclassified. He had naught but dignity, He had nothing to atone, It was not his choice of action, So God's mercy has been shown. He had hoped to be a chaplain, But they said he lacked in years. Yet his Maker knew his talent, And he rewarded, it appears. And although our hearts are heavy We rejoice in his success, May god keep constant vigil And forever him shall bless. The Duffields lived west of Garden Grove where the Kobville County Park is located.