A Letter from Dad

Men At War

And those who also serve

c. 1944 My instinct is to publish every one of these Reagan stories, but of course I can't.  I don't think RR will mind that I did this one, though. “ Dear Son: I wish I had the power to write The thoughts wedged in my heart tonight As I sit here watching that small star And wondering where and how you are. You know, Son, it's a funny thing How close a war can really bring A Father, who for years with pride Has kept emotions deep inside. I'm sorry, Son, when you were small I let reserve build up that wall; I told you real men never cried, And it was Mom who always dried Your tears and smoothed your hurts away So that you soon went back to play. But, Son, deep down within my heart I longed to have some little part In drying that small-tear stained face But we were men - men don't embrace And suddenly I found my Son A full grown man, with childhood done. Tonight you're far across the sea, Fighting a war for men like me. Well, somehow pride and what is right Have each changed places here tonight. I find my eyes won't stay quite dry And that men sometimes really cry. And if we stood here, face to face I'm sure, my Son, we would embrace. Son, dads are quite a funny lot, And if I've failed you on some spot It's not because I loved you less But just this cussed manliness. And if I had the power to write The thoughts wedged in my heart tonight, The words would ring out loud and true, I'm proud, my Son, yes proud of you.. ” “ He signed it "Dad"and walked down to the corner and dropped it in the mailbox.  As he returned home and reached his own doorstep he was handed the war department telegram, the one that began with the fateful words "We regret to inform you." I'm glad that I can believe his son knew he had written that letter. Ronald Reagan, "Stories in His Own Hand" ”