[Verse 1]
The flag is waving high on a dusty country road
I’m thinking 'bout the weight, the heavy pack they load
From the hills of Appalachia to the plains of Texas heat
They put their boots on steady, they don't accept defeat
They’re fighting for the soil, for the rights we call our own
For the quiet little peace that sits inside a home
And yeah, we got the rhythm, we got the heavy kick
But the reality of war, man, it hits you double-quick
[Chorus]
Oh, raise a glass to the ones who paid the price
They walked into the fire, they didn't think twice
Some make it back to porch swings and Sunday morning light
But some stay in the shadows, fighting in the night
They miss the birthday candles, the turkey on the plate
They miss the final goodbyes, they leave it up to fate
Yeah, we honor all the fallen, and the ones who still stand tall
For the freedom of this nation, they gave it all.
[Verse 2]
I’m rapping on the beat, but my heart is feeling low
Thinking 'bout the empty chairs in a living room row
Little Billy’s got a birthday, but his daddy isn't there
Just a folded piece of linen and a soldier’s silent prayer
They miss the funerals, the weddings, the milestones in the sand
While they’re holding down the front lines in a far and distant land
It’s a heavy price of living, it’s the cost of being free
So pour a little out for those who won't be back with me
[Chorus]
Oh, raise a glass to the ones who paid the price
They walked into the fire, they didn't think twice
Some make it back to porch swings and Sunday morning light
But some stay in the shadows, fighting in the night
They miss the birthday candles, the turkey on the plate
They miss the final goodbyes, they leave it up to fate
Yeah, we honor all the fallen, and the ones who still stand tall
For the freedom of this nation, they gave it all.
[Outro]
Yeah
For the freedom of this nation
We never forget
Rest easy, brother
Till we meet again.