Due to the highly sensitive nature of the following photos I have created this page for those that would like to view them along with the poem that I have writen:

This series is a reflection of many of talks with my children. We live very close to Fort Logan National cemetery and we have seen a rise in recent deaths.   My sons have taken notice and have asked many many questions that have broke my heart trying to explain.   This series was brought about by our numerous discussions about real life common heros.

It is not my intension to deceive (my husband is not in the military) but to honor those that have paid the price for freedom.

THE COST OF FREEDOM SERIES

Daddy?   Where have you gone, I miss you so......

My son I will never be far,

Look to the stars,

& there I'll be --

Spreading freedom to children of all decree.

But, I don't see you daddy,

See me you may not......

But feel my presence in your heart,

So my life & meaning is not forgot....

What is Freedom daddy?

What takes you there?

Freedom means different things,

Some might argue the intrecacies,

But please take note that I fight for what I believe,

I fight for children to go to school,

------I go to preschool daddy,....Yes,you do,

I fight for children to have food,

------I eat all my dinner daddy,....Yes, you do,

I fight for children to speak their minds,

-----I talk a lot,......OH, YES you do,

But most of all.....

I fight for childrens dreams, to let their spirits --   fly free,

----I dream a lot daddy, I'm gonna own a candy shop!

OH, Yes you will........

Fly my son fly free,

Fly as high as you can believe,

You are not trapped, you can dream......

Because of all the sacrifice a common man has--

Endured & Seen,

A common man daddy?,

You ARE NOT!

But a HERO that will never be forgot!

                Author and photographer:  Melissa Zavadil