I called him Lieutenant Dan
Purple Heart from Vietnam
Agent orange took his left arm
Always first on his feet
Singin’ “O say can you see”
His right hand pressed to his heart

And he’d say - Life is learned with blood and sweat
Kindness is earned just like respect
Grandpa’s quartet —was blood,— sweat — kindness and respect

Loved to sing Amazin’ Grace
Ev’ry mornin’ at daybreak
From his church, his tractor seat
Nine o’clock was his bedtime
He’d tell grandma we’re all fine
Right before he’d fall asleep

Life is learned with blood and sweat
Kindness is earned just like respect
Grandpa’s quartet —was blood,— sweat — kindness and respect

I won’t forget all he taught me
But laugh how he sang so off key

Life is learned with blood and sweat
Kindness is earned just like respect
Grandpa’s quartet —he sang till the Lord said rest
With blood,— sweat — kindness and respect
Blood,— sweat — kindness and respect