Life, 1919-02-20 · page 7 of 34
Life — February 20, 1919 — page 7: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page features a patriotic poem by Charlotte Becker honoring soldiers in World War I. The poem celebrates a boy from ordinary circumstances (farm, shop, mill) who enlisted and died in France, fighting for "Truth and Freedom." The illustration below depicts a street scene where a woman appears to be displaying or mourning a portrait—likely of a fallen soldier—while civilians gather around. The image is titled "THE FATHER OF HIS COUNTRY," suggesting the fallen soldier represents national sacrifice. The overall message is sentimental and propagandistic: glorifying the common soldier's sacrifice during WWI and positioning American involvement as morally righteous. The poem urges Americans to honor these "unchad boys" with pride and remembrance.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
The Boy in Khaki H® came from farm or office, shop or mill— And through his valor Truth and Freedom live— High-visioned, eager, gay and stout of heart, France, England, Italy with cheers acclaim Impatient to fulfill his stalwart part; His dauntless aid, and Belgium rings with joy; He braved the dust-clouds of Lorraine, the chill Gray mud of Flanders, with exultant thrill; In face of death he knew no faltering, But offered life as just a simple thing Whose smiling sacrifice some need must fill. Charlotte With loving pride America shall give All honor to him, and salute his n With happy homage for cach dun-clad hoy! THE FATHER OF Mls COUNTRY comicbooks.com