“Our Band of Brothers”: a poem by Skip Thaeler ’66S

After Homecoming 2019, Farragut alumnus Skip Thaeler ‘66S wrote this poem about brotherhood and why alumni come back to Farragut year after year.

We are a Band of Brothers; and the ties that bind us are strong,
Forged in our youth, the bonds, nonetheless, have held us together so long;
Though now it is true that our time-honored brethren are scattered o’er half of the Earth,
For the friendship and care we still hold for each other, not a soul can challenge our worth.

We began this fine journey when our brains were still growing; but our hearts knew the meaning of trust;
We competed, cavorted and grew into men, then went off to do what we must.
Through the years of good living — of work and of play, we developed our singular styles;
But when classmates — nay, BROTHERS — would call us to meet, we then traveled the requisite miles.

Some gained loving spouses — now SISTERS to all — and our families we share with the Band;
And though we’ve lost members, their spirits remain and abide with us here as we stand.
There are things in life that defy routine limits of living and dying and time;
And, as long as but ONE of us still breathes his breath, the soul of our group lives sublime.

For we are the Band of Brothers; and the bonds we have forged can’t be broken;
Though others may follow the path we have trod, it’s of US that their words will be spoken.
And I say this to each of my brothers and sisters who have made this fine journey such pleasure:
I thank you with all of my heart and my being for these gifts you’ve bestowed beyond measure.

So, once in a while, take a pause in your day to let THANKS overcome any STRIFE …
For the FRIENDS we have been over 50 long years — our FAMILY we cherish for life.