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View a eulogy for Robert Augustine Seidel III, USMA '04, who passed away on May 18, 2006.

Robert Augustine Seidel III

West Point, 2004

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by T.E.S. Wyatt on January 30, 2007:

A bird flew into a glass door,
then laid on its back and prayed.
We buried it in the garden,
then continued with our day.

When another bird hit the door,
"What's happening?" we cried,
kneeling down to stare at it,
sure that it had died.

But then its head moved slowly,
the bird began to sway.
It balanced on its feet
and finally flew away.

Singing a joyful song,
it flew aroung once more.
Hope rose again within us
as we stood beside the door.

What was at first so shocking
finally became clear,
a Sly dramatic message
to the ones we hold so dear.

Some fulfill their purpose
then fold their wings and die.
Others are survivors,
who stand back up and fly.

Their purpose has not been fulfilled.
Their job is incomplete.
The world longs for survivors
when life is bittersweet.

Don't question why you're chosen,
just do your very best
to complete your unique purpose,
your own personal quest.

You'll pay lasting honor
to the ones who've gove before
by sharing cherished memories
and creating many more.

It's a great responsibility.
Don't Rob them of their glory.
Promise them you'll carry on.
You have to tell their story.

Don't forget your loved ones
have placed their hope in you.
The others haven't died in vain
when survivors have hope, too.

By: Theresa E.S. Wyatt

In loving memory of her nephew,
1LT Robert A. Seidel, III
KIA 18 May 2006
Baghdad, Iraq

Dedicated to Rip

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