Billy Ray Cyrus........ Some Gave All
When Daniel, a young man in his 20s and a paternal relative to my cousin, was killed over in Afghanistan by a IED, Billy Ray Cyrus sang that song at the service. Billy Ray, who was home in Nashville, TN at the time, heard about Daniel's death on the news and called the family to ask if he could have the honor to sing this song that he performed/recorded.
This young man's death touched the hearts of many that day. Not only was he a courageous soldier, but he was a volunteer firefighter and served his community. The town people lined the streets that day, as I saw when I rode in the funeral procession with my cousin. They had their caps off (if men) and hands over their hearts in deference to this young man's bravery and sacrifice.
It was truly one of the most memorable and patriotic moments I have ever witnessed and experienced in my life. I missed posting this on Memo
Charlie Daniels' "In America" is one of my favorites, too. Also his song, "Still In Saigon", which references our Viet Nam vets. Of which, i have a few uncles who served there.