This Monday, November 11, is our nation’s federal holiday and a way to remember and honor America’s veterans.
For the past few years, I have written my humble homage to veterans – especially those who came home and carried wounds that no-one saw. Here is my homage:
Military Man
He came home safe back in 1945
Proud of himself, happy to be alive
Town threw him a parade, women kissed him too
“Hey son, come work for me, our country needs you.”
America Loves A Military Man
Forgotten man in a forgotten war
Friend says “Haven’t seen you at our local bar.”
He replies “I was fighting for the USA
You didn’t know I was away?”
America Loves A Military Man
Don’t remember his name or where he was from
Three days in Vietnam and he was done
Went home in a box to his Mom and Dad
Feelings pushed deep down inside
No time to be sad
Young soldier walks through an airport parking lot
Small crowd approaches and starts to shout
“Hey you, baby killer, welcome home”
Spit at him – dazed and confused – he is all alone
America Loves A Military Man
I am working out at my local gym
When I find myself being drawn to him
Young kid in a wheelchair flipping some weight
Friend watching, a guard at the gate
I introduce myself and we start to chat
IED blew him up, then flat on his back
I shake his left hand and walk away
Without a warning I feel this sway
I am choking up, tears on my face
Get myself together, I’m in a public place
I am whole but less than this young man
He left an arm and leg in a place called Afghanistan
America Loves A Military Man