The following sonnet is based on a true story related to me by a family member who is a special forces member. I am reprinting it here as a reminder of the sacrifice our men and women in uniform endure to pay for the freedom we enjoy. Please remember our fallen and their families this Memorial Day--and every day.73Please respect copyright.PENANAqh40j8MSO0
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER73Please respect copyright.PENANA6Ot5ABfz1s
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,73Please respect copyright.PENANAB0ruxtqqyh
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,73Please respect copyright.PENANASFRTc7dZgT
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,73Please respect copyright.PENANA05ZKEVeypN
And brought your body back to family.73Please respect copyright.PENANATfSBgnpZHu
73Please respect copyright.PENANAaqJ0Kvkd2Z
Later in a ritual of their own,73Please respect copyright.PENANAf8MNOYRB4V
They would name a field airport in your name,73Please respect copyright.PENANAs4Cu1vCEEG
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,73Please respect copyright.PENANAp6y6bxfpeU
Their memory now your eternal flame.73Please respect copyright.PENANA4VdDfEF5HI
73Please respect copyright.PENANAd5rYXVVBoB
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,73Please respect copyright.PENANAHN9oCjiU4X
I only know that I am in your debt,73Please respect copyright.PENANAAGlQIAu3X2
Who for your family can take your place?73Please respect copyright.PENANAHDdNc5sZjH
Our debt to them we must never forget.73Please respect copyright.PENANA56xVa3e6XC
73Please respect copyright.PENANAET3JAO0vTV
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,73Please respect copyright.PENANAihoNPu7dsZ
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.73Please respect copyright.PENANACv1wB3tJ6t