in memoriam solemnis

early sunlight against
morning dew
sparkling
dishonestly
underneath 39 pairs of boots

save one

the call to attention
pops soles together
(souls together)
in unison
feet at 45 degree angles
covered and aligned

save one

it is time for all
to face the reality
knowledge shared
harshness
brutality
of loss

save one

the roll call begins
the barretts
the browns
the emersons
the nelsons
the sanchezes
all reply in presence

save one

silence stems
from empty boots
a rifle bearing dog tags
helmet askew
while cheeks flush
eyes glisten
but bearing remains

save one

the name repeated
he answers not
for this warrior
(father)
(son)
(brother)
(friend)
has been welcomed
into valhalla

Reviews

[Mockingbird]

you writing style translates the tragedy really well. the details make for a vivid scene both visually but also auditory. great poem.

[Siren]

great write, haunzy.... really really great.

[EMMIE]

SO SAD AND SO TRUE. THIS FLOWS WELL AND IT REALLY PROVOKES SOME THOUGHT. GREAT WRITE!