Memorial Day, 2017
On this Memorial Day, May 29, 2017, my thoughts turn to those brave Americans who’s love for their country and fellow citizens was stronger than love of their own lives; those who have made, for us, the ultimate sacrifice. I am in awe of those brave souls, and offer to them this short poem in commemoration of their valor:
Vouchsafed For Us
They volunteer to go
where few will venture.
They walk to the door of terror
and then they enter.
Their hearts beat
with courage so strong.
With fortitude and stamina
they face the battle long.
Their character is the best
that anyone’s can be.
Their vision goes beyond
what you and I can see.
They strive to protect
our land, our home.
They strive to defend
their countrymen unknown.
They know what’s at stake.
No one needs to draw them a picture.
They have beliefs profound,
and each their own Scripture.
They overcome dread
and fear unbridled.
They walk with heroism
and valor unrivaled.
The ultimate sacrifice
they vouchsafe for us.
The ultimate price
they each hold in trust.
They know that our freedom
is, indeed, not free.
And for us, they look steady
into the eyes of eternity.