Local songwriter pays tribute to military with patriotic tune

Southeast Missourian

There are so many catchy songs to belt out when one is feeling particularly patriotic. "America the Beautiful." "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." "Welcome Home USA."

> > Click here to listen to the song in MP3 format

Or, at least, Cape Girardeau songwriter David Barberis hopes Americans one day will think of that last one. He wrote it on scrap paper in less than two hours earlier this year.

It was part of his post-Sept. 11 goal to put his writing ability to use by paying tribute to those who fight for our country. "Welcome Home USA" describes the homecoming of military men and women.

Many of the song's lyrics may conjure feelings of happiness and reunion, but its main purpose is to pay a solemn tribute to those who have lost their lives fighting for the country, he said.

"No matter if they made it back or not, they are still coming home," Barberis said. "Maybe just not back to their home on Earth."

A sampling of visitors to downtown Cape Girardeau this week who agreed to listen to Barberis' work said it's indicative of how most in the region feel about the turbulant times.

"After coming downtown for the Fourth of July, I really think this song relates to a lot of people here," said JoElla Smith.

Judy Evans said it stirred her patriotic leanings.

"I have a real sense of getting the troops home," she said. "When I listen to it, I can see the rally of the troops coming home."

Barberis will be performing "Welcome Home USA," other songs he wrote and songs by other artists Saturday from 8 to 12 p.m. at the Cape Girardeau Eagles Club, 321 N. Spring.

He's sending his patriotic tune to Nashville recording companies in hope of a contract and, eventually, radio airplay.