Those caps and vests
declare service
to our country
a branch of the military
a unit number
the name of a ship.
Part of a humble community
of men who said yes
when called.
Warriors
for the rest of us,
a grateful nation.
The soul of America
stooped, tattooed, hands gnarled,
burden of memories, to protect us.
Bearing Purple Heart scars,
also internal wounds
from deployment.
Handclasps, comradeship,
exclude the rest of us,
thankful for their selflessness.
Chuck Thompson, USAF 1965-69, West Berlin. Uncle Charles Thompson, WWII Marine tank gunner Pacific. Uncle Leon Thompson WWII Army. Uncle Lyle Thompson WWII Marine machine gunner MIA 1942. Cousin Jerry Thompson Vietnam Combat Engineer. Cousin Raymond Thompson, USAF, killed in accident while serving. Mom’s half brother. Lyle Cheever, in the last US Army’s horse cavalry unit. When they began to disband the mounted cavalry, the Army made him a cook. Re-joined the Army after War was declared and served as a light infantry tank commander and fought across France, Belgium and Germany.
A wonderful veteran post, Joy!
Thank you! Chuck was a classmate of my kid sister.
Such a beautiful post for our veterans. Thanks.
Bless you. My husband is an Air Force Vietnam veteran, and I had so many WWII relatives, and the three who lost their lives.
I am sorry for those who lost their lives. We will all remember their sacrifice this Veteran’s day and everyday.
Wonderful poem! Wonderful tribute!!! Thank you for sharing!
Bless you for your encouragment.
Your poem reminds me how my dad wore his VFW cap proudly. He served as chaplain for our local post.
What a great memory!
Yes, it is. He was a remarkable man.
Beautiful and fitting, Joy- thank you for sharing.
Bless you, Anne. I don’t do poetry often, but this one wanted spareness.
Very nice, Joy. You have a a great many talents.
You’re so encouraging. Bless you. It just wanted spareness.