When "Taps" are played at a military funeral, the haunting melody and the echoing tones of the lone bugler never fail to stir deep emotion ... lumps form in our throat, tears fill our eyes, and a hush falls over those gathered to pay tribute to someone who has served our great country.  The origins of this song are steeped in myth, but most agree it was written in the days of the Civil War. The words are gently eloquent:

Fading light dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar drawing nigh -- Falls the night.

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky.
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Then good night, peaceful night,
Till the light of the dawn shineth bright,
God is near, do not fear -- Friend, good night.