Story Songs: Some Gave All

Billy Ray Cyrus's breakthrough song was the mega-hit "Achy Breaky Heart" in 1992. It was off his debut album, "Save Gave All," which sold more than 4 million copies worldwide.

"Some Gave All" is Cyrus's tribute to veterans. It was written by Cyrus and former wife, Cindy. While many folks dismissed "Achy Breaky Heart" as a silly ditty, "Some Gave All" is a thoughtful and moving tune about the sacrifices veterans have made for our nation. 

The song is about a fellow named Sandy Kane, who the narrator describes as a person that:

 "Few folks knew his name,  
But a hero was he
Left a boy, came back a man"

Sandy tells the narrator that we should never take for granted the price of freedom. While many have served in the military, like Sandy, many lost their lives for our country and other nations:

"All gave some and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all"

And Sandy's powerful parting words:

"And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties, yes recall
Some gave all"

This song makes me think of all the seemingly nameless men and women from all walks of life who have been willing to give their lives to protect our freedoms. They don't see themselves as heroes and or anyone special. They simply have a job to do, knowing that it may involve the ultimate sacrifice.

This post is dedicated to two high school friends who gave all in Vietnam -- Marshall Jones and James Huckleberry. I'm sure you have those in your life who gave all as well, so please remember them as well.

"Some Gave All" lyrics