A simple song from comedian and musician Ray Stevens that says “Thank You” to all those who have or are currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. The percentage of Americans who serve in the military is the smallest it has been in generations, so the cost to protect Freedom is being borne by fewer and fewer Americans. The least those who have not served can do is say a simple “Thank You.”
Ray Stevens is a Grammy-winning country and novelty singer best known for comic hits such as “The Streak,” “Gitarzan,” and the gospel favorite “Everything Is Beautiful.” Here he sets the comedy aside for a straightforward patriotic tribute. Over images of service members and veterans, the lyric thanks the men and women of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard — and their families — for the freedoms the rest of the country enjoys. It is the kind of plain, heartfelt salute that plays as well at a Memorial Day gathering as on a veteran’s homecoming.