A Tribute to Lt. William Calley

Annotation

As the title suggested, the song "A Tribute to Lt. William Calley" (Freedom Ring # 618) supported Calley, arguing that he, and other soldiers "fought to keep us free". The narrator expressed disgust that Calley sat in a prison, and said that he wanted to help him. "McDowell Enterprises", printed on the label, was based in Nashville, Tennessee.1 Produced by Lou Tillman.Sources1searchworks.stanford.edu↩

Annotation by Justin A. Brummer

Lyrics

English: Many men have fought in wars, many men have died / Many men have lost their lives... / But what I talk about...a man who fought to keep us free... / A man just 27, what more can he do / Locked away behind closed doors... / We'd all like to help you son / I man who fought to keep us free is now locked up inside... / Why do things have to be like this... / Lets just thank god that someone gave his life for you and me / Let the bells of freedom ring far and wide / So Mr. Calley, I guess some things must be / We'd all like to thank you son for keeping us free

Notes

Freedom Ring 618, "A Division of Tillman-McDowell Enterprises", stars-and-stripes label with Liberty Bell; F-618-1 "America, Now Join Hands" (Roger McDowell), McDowell Music, BMI, 5:49 (SON 95291); F-618-2 "A Tribute to Lt. William Calley" (Roger McDowell), McDowell Music, BMI, 2:41 (SON 95292); a Lou Tillman production, arranged by Roger McDowell. [From the record sleeve and labels]

Themes

Patriotic · My Lai · Pro-Calley · Calley-Justice · Pro-Soldier

In collections

My Lai & Lt. William Calley Songs · US 'Patriotic' / Pro-Government / Anti-Protest Songs [War Years]