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Veterans Day Poem Freedom Is Not Free – The Veterans Day poem “Freedom Is Not Free” (also known as “Freedom Isn’t Free”) captures a powerful truth many Americans feel each November 11: the liberties we enjoy come at a real cost paid by those who served. Written by Kelly Strong in 1981, the poem remains a staple in classrooms, ceremonies, community programs, and family gatherings across the United States.
This resource page explains the poem’s background, shares where to find legitimate free printables and full text, and offers practical ways to use it when honoring veterans.
What Is the “Freedom Is Not Free” Poem?
Kelly Strong wrote the poem as a high school senior in Homestead, Florida, for a Junior ROTC class assignment. He later served 24 years in the U.S. Coast Guard. The verses reflect on a young service member saluting the flag, the sound of Taps, the sacrifices of fallen troops, and the impact on families. Its closing lines emphasize that freedom carries a price paid in lives, service, and interrupted dreams.
The poem resonates especially on Veterans Day because the holiday honors all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces—living and deceased—in wartime and peacetime. Many schools, veterans organizations, and families read it aloud or display it as a reminder of gratitude.
Where to Find Legitimate Free Printables and the Full Poem?
Look for trusted educational, museum, and official sources rather than random sites that may alter the text or add unrelated content.
One clear, printable version that includes the full poem plus discussion questions suitable for classrooms or family use is available as a free PDF from the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center:
Download the Freedom Is Not Free PDF.
You can also read the complete poem with the author’s background note on the USA Patriotism site:
Freedom Isn’t Free by Kelly Strong.
For broader Veterans Day classroom materials, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers an official Teachers Resource Guide (free download) with activities, history, and ideas that pair well with poetry readings:
VA Veterans Day Teachers Resource Guide.
Blue Star Families provides free printable activity packs for kids and families, including coloring pages and word searches that complement poem readings:
Blue Star Families Veterans Day Free Printables.
These sources are reputable non-profits or government resources. Always verify current availability and respect copyright—credit Kelly Strong (Copyright 1981) when sharing or printing.
Veterans Day Poem Freedom Is Not Free
How to Use the Poem for Veterans Day?
- Print the PDF and display it at home, in a classroom, or at a community event.
- Read it aloud during a school assembly, family meal, or veterans breakfast.
- Pair it with student-written responses, acrostic poems, or letters of thanks to local veterans.
- Use the discussion questions on the museum PDF to spark conversation about service, sacrifice, and what freedom means.
- Combine it with official VA posters or activity sheets for a complete lesson or program.
Keep paragraphs short when sharing with children, and focus on gratitude rather than graphic details of conflict.
Brief FAQ
Who wrote “Freedom Is Not Free”?
Kelly Strong wrote it in 1981 as a high school JROTC student. He later served in the Coast Guard.
Is the poem free to print and share?
Yes for personal, educational, and non-commercial use when properly attributed. The linked museum PDF and USA Patriotism page make legitimate sharing straightforward. For broader commercial use, seek permission from the author or rights holder.
When is Veterans Day?
November 11 each year. Observances often include the closest weekday for schools and workplaces, but the official date remains fixed.
Can I find other free Veterans Day resources?
Yes. Start with the official VA Teachers Resource Guide and Blue Star Families printables linked above. Many local libraries, VFW posts, and American Legion halls also offer free materials or event ideas.
Using authentic sources and the original poem helps keep the focus where it belongs—on the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans. Whether you print a copy for your wall, read it with students, or simply pause to reflect, “Freedom Is Not Free” offers a clear, heartfelt way to mark the day.