A Veteran's Tribute

A Poem by Eric Spitz

A poem I wrote on Veteran's Day 2015

It's hard to find a group on earth, so diverse and so united
Every race, religion, background, bound by an oath we all once cited
To support and defend... to bear truth faith and allegiance...
Words that carry special meaning because we gave them credence

For reasons only known to us, for causes that seemed right
We agreed to bear the risks, suffer the burdens of our plight
Whether criticized or lauded, we had an obligation to fulfill
A duty that would cost some of us our lives, our limbs, our will

You may see us as fighters, adorned with medals, holding guns
But to others we are Lovers, Mothers, Fathers, Daughters, Sons
Bidding farewell to our families has brought hardships none deserve
And our loved ones often suffer most - even if we do return

There are those of us that wince or cringe when offered up your thanks
We mean no disrespect, of course, but think of others in our ranks
Others more deserving, more in pain, in need of aid
Your praise is better laid on those that struggle still today

You may rest your head tonight in blissful, peaceful sleep
But others here will find no peace; they lie awake and weep
Their loved ones lost or injured; hopes are gone; dreams now shattered
This day should honor them the most; it's their sacrifice that matters