There is a beauty spot on Cannock Chase
With Commonwealth and German Cemeteries
It is a peaceful, hallowed resting-place
where little birds are heard among the trees.
Here victims of the two World Wars have space.
The wars were ugly, with no victories
but all around is calm on Cannock Chase.
In death united, friends and enemies.
Headstones record the names of German men.
Their rank and dates of birth and death show clear.
So young were they who now lie resting, when
They gave their lives for causes they held dear.
These Germans came in great hostility
But died as casualties, not victors crowned.
In death they lie in deep tranquillity.
Their hopes and dreams, too, buried underground.
New Zealand servicemen lie further on
with Commonwealth and Allied casualties.
They died as victims in the same war zone,
Our brothers from so far beyond the seas.
They took their leave of loved ones in the land
Called Te Arora in the Maori tongue.
They bravely sailed away while singing and
They willingly gave up their lives, though young.
Now those who once were bitter enemies
Lie buried close, forever crowned as kings.
No sounds of war; only a gentle breeze,
That breaks the silence with a bird that sings.
The sad futility of war that feeds
On fears, suspicions, hate and jealousy
Must surely summon us to sow the seeds
Of peace that makes us all one family.
As this anniversary nears end
And we look back on sixty years of peace
Let's strive afresh new messages to send
And pray that everywhere all wars will cease.
Let us remember those who gave their lives
So willingly when all was grief and pain.
It's right we should believe that he who strives
Will reach the dizzy heights, not die in vain.
The them and us syndrome must disappear.
Great love for one another we should see.
When all have equal rights, we'll banish fear.
We'll have a whole New World and we'll be free.