For The Heroes

I stopped in the deli for a bite to eat
As I approached the counter I stopped my feet
There he was as tall as can be
With a dark green beret and a stature so elite.
He looked at me and nodded
With a twinkle in his eye
I couldn't help but shake his hand
And thank him for being such a dedicated guy.
He leaned towards me; a smile on his face
As he whispered to me with courage and grace.
"I'm going on duty and I don't know how long
The war is not over; to end it is wrong"
I listened closely as he gave me the news
Of the battles he faced and the friends he had to lose. 
With a tear in my eye I couldn't believe
The strength this man had and
For all he achieved.

He looked towards me with his watery eyes
The next thing he said came as a surprise.
"I'm going to be a daddy; my wife is expecting.
While I'm overseas doing my job of protecting.
Please send her my love and tell her I'll be alright
I'm leaving for Iraq; on my way tonight.
"Tell her to keep safe and when the baby arrives
Give him a kiss for me and I'll soon return to my bride.
Leaning over the counter he reached for his receipt
And pulled out his wallet to pay for his treat.
Turning towards me he winked and saluted goodbye
"Keep me close in prayer until I make it back one night.

 

It doesn't matter to me if you don't believe what they are doing is right

They are risking their lives so you can sleep safe at night.

The least you can do is thank them when they pass you by

And if you don't know why

It's for sacrificing their life so we can remain free

And doing it all for you and for me.

 

Reviews

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A hero in your presence and a precious poem to mark the day. I really enjoyed your story here and I think you wrote about a great person with so much on his mind. Very nice!