Who am I? Newfoundland’s unknown soldier

Who am I” was written to honor Newfoundland and Labrador’s Unknown Soldier, who was brought back from Northern France and entombed at Newfoundland and Labrador’s National War Memorial in St. John’s, on July 1, 2024. This historic event also marked the hundredth anniversary of the memorial’s official unveiling in 1924.

Who am I? Newfoundland’s unknown soldier

I am the unknown, a soldier, true,

My name, my face, lost toward history’s view.

On that very special day July 1, 2024,

I was brought Back home to Newfoundland and Labrador.

My remains were repatriated from Northern France,

To lie at rest in St. John’s as a solemn remembrance.

The National War Memorial, a place of honor and pride,

It is the final resting place where I would reside.

My story is told in the annals of time,

A sacrifice, a hero, and a life left behind.

On that day, July 1, 2024, I was brought home,

To the province of Newfoundland, no longer to roam.

Now you ask, “Who am I? I am young; I am old.

I live in your heart; you live in my soul.

I am your father; I am your mother.

I am your sister; I am your brother.

I am everyone, especially your friend,

I will answer the call because conflicts will never end.

I fought with courage; I fought with pride,

I went missing in action, my family grieved and cried.

In Valor’s battle, I met my fate.

In the hearts of the brave, I will remain awake.

Who will I be? Nobody will ever know but me.

Now all know where I live, it is a place of honor where I stay.

I lived and died without regrets,

There is one thing I ask: You must never forget.

Visit me whenever you can,

Bring your family, so they too will understand.

The tomb of the unknown soldier remains so cold,

It will preserve me forever, as I will never grow old.

I have fought for you; I have given my life for you.

I have lived for you, for you are me, and I am you.

That is who I am.

“

James E. Mercer *** November 10, 2025 *** Copyright protectedAll rights reserved