For VT

Roll Call for the Absent

In many lands and climes this April day
Proud sons of Texas A&M unite.
Our loyalty to country, school, we
pray,
and seal our pact with bond of common might.

We live again
those happy days of yore
on campus, field, in classroom, dorm, at drill
Fond memory brings a sigh -- but nothing more;
Now we are men and life’s
a greater thrill,

On Corregidor * years ago today
A band of gallant
Aggies, led by Moore,
Held simple rites which led to us doth all to say:
The spirit shall prevail through cannon roar.

Before we part and go
upon our way,
We pause to honor those we knew so well;
The old familiar
faces we miss so much today
Left cherished recollections that time cannot
dispel.

Softly call the Muster,
Let comrade answer, “Here!”
Their spirits hover ‘round us
As if to bring us cheer!

Mark them
‘present’ in our hearts.
We’ll meet some other day
There is no death,
but life etern
For our old friends such as they!

by Dr. John Ashton
c/o 1906

In honor of the victims of the shootings at Virginia Tech. The thoughts and prayers of Texas A&M as well as the nation are with you. You will be remembered at Muster.