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.72Please respect copyright.PENANAcxjInSDxko
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER72Please respect copyright.PENANAoLwehYQSSQ
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,72Please respect copyright.PENANA7RqFGl2bVl
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,72Please respect copyright.PENANAh9BcBy2Kcl
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,72Please respect copyright.PENANAFHkJssGUGU
And brought your body back to family.72Please respect copyright.PENANAudof2M1sXo
72Please respect copyright.PENANA3hJ1eJo7jn
Later in a ritual of their own,72Please respect copyright.PENANAADkHAGjjCa
They would name a field airport in your name,72Please respect copyright.PENANASknMHW1Hq6
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,72Please respect copyright.PENANAAl7A4mDBov
Their memory now your eternal flame.72Please respect copyright.PENANA59hZElh24o
72Please respect copyright.PENANAQjiRCgmuwe
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,72Please respect copyright.PENANABAUjbaiTH6
I only know that I am in your debt,72Please respect copyright.PENANAUJ9BCx5dCF
Who for your family can take your place?72Please respect copyright.PENANA9NNCjUUvWH
Our debt to them we must never forget.72Please respect copyright.PENANAjniFsIeUJ8
72Please respect copyright.PENANACFVuXpAZcM
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,72Please respect copyright.PENANABc28CLwUHv
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.72Please respect copyright.PENANA4rsInYDPOC