The poem
Honor to those who in the life they lead define and guard a Thermopylae. Never betraying what is right, consistent and just in all they do but showing pity also, and compassion; generous when they're rich, and when they're poor, still generous in small ways, still helping as much as they can; always speaking the truth, yet without hating those who lie. And even more honor is due to them when they foresee (as many do foresee) that Ephialtis will turn up in the end, that the Medes will break through after all.
This poem is about courage and honor. It covers one of the greatest stories ever told - the battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC. It should be used as a message to those who have fought valiantly to the end even knowing that they were doomed that they have a unique sense of honor that can never be undermined.