The Warriors’ Graves of Oakwood
Oakwood Cemetery - Richmond, Virginia
by Bill Ward

17,000 gray clad sons,
in time of war picked up their guns.
While in their hearts held Dixie's song,
with blood stained banners struggled on.
And when their last full measure gave
at Oakwood found a warrior's grave.

So very few the stones that tell,
the names of men who fought and fell.
Yet for each three there stands one block,
which has three numbers carved in rock,
to mark the place where valor rests,
with Southern boys who gave their best.

One column stands with names of States,
who offered sons to unknown fates.
Two cannons raise eternal guard,
for heroes that were battle scarred.
Though modest in its simple plan,
speaks volumes for each fallen man.

From battles far or battles near,
from sickness or diseases here,
so many graves were quickly filled,
with boys from Chimborazo’s hill.
Though none the names that we know well,
they lived more hardships than could tell.

Now as I gaze upon the rows,
of marble blocks my knowledge grows.
That each man’s sacrifice was clear,
he fought for all that he held dear.
For family, honor and State’s rights,
the martyred thousands stormed the heights.

In Death’s long, ageless sleep they rest,
part of that generation’s best.
And though their hopes and dreams are gone,
in glory will their deeds live on.
Who once stood mighty, loyal and brave,
at Oakwood found a warrior’s grave.

© Bill Ward 1998