So far away from home in distant and often desolate lands

our young men fight for freedoms with blood stained hands

with heavy hearts embrace brothers who die in their arms

the reality of war in the action and way of so many harms

the call of duty, honor and country ring loudly in their ears

willingness to fight and die maturity far beyond their years

Shouldering the burden of any moment they too may fall

they fly the flag of freedom while standing tall at the wall

the depth of purpose as warriors they must and do sustain

for it is their bravery for those they love care for to remain

safe at home alive in the freedoms some take for granted

not realizing the seeds of war are only as good as planted

Like so many before them they know they have to fight

in the shadow of darkness or in the broadness of daylight

All at some time will say or ask What are we doing here?

yet they know they must not yield to any thoughts of fear

No conscious thoughts of heroism ever cross their mind

you do what you do and hope even pray it ain’t your time!

None return without the horror of memories and some scars

the hidden tears of doubts and fears are a true reality of wars

some ache in some way it’s like a fire that has to stay burned

engulfed with feel’n for war they have to find a way to return

others seem to cope with what they did and happy to survive

in time it becomes a distant drum in the beat I’m still alive

Let’s pray for all our fine young men who have passed away

These brave souls rest in peace with God forever and a day

Always let’s not forget each name though carved in stone

will live forever in the hearts and minds of those left at home

hopefully you come to know their smiles were heaven sent

These wonderful short lives weren’t wasted at any expense!