Soldier Boy

"Greater love hath no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

As the call to battle rings in his ear

the soldier boy advances hiding his fear.

His love of country and fierce Celtic pride

breathes fire into his soul

as his young wife cries.

She prays nightly for St. Peter

to guide his way

and that he return to the safety

of  her loving arms one day .

While the battle rages on

this image in his head

gives courage to the lad

as he skirts all the dead.

But when bullets fly past him

and men scream from pain

he can’t help but question

just why he came,

to take part in a war

where he must fight to kill

knowing other sons of mothers’

lay dying still.

It’s then he remembers

and believe you he must,

that his homeland is being threatened

and the cause is just.

For he's fighting to keep

his country safe from harm

and to protect and defend

his Brothers in Arms.

 

 

Author's Note

This poem was inspired by the above painting but the message is universal. We are indebted to those of you who have served and sacrificed for the love of country. This is a tribute to those men, women and their families and especially to those who have paid the 'ultimate sacrifice'.

Reviews

[~]

Amen!! A wonderful tribute to all those who have laid their lives for us and continue to protect our freedoms. :D

[Dara]

Thank you for your words of support. Yes! It is answering above and beyond the call of duty.

[Kelly Scheppers]

Such an appropriate read for Memorial Day, Dara. It's so much more than an extra day that grants a three day weekend.

Your presentation is lovely in the font you chose, and your heart speaks volumes to your reader.

[Dara]

Thank you very much Kelly. I am so happy to be able to move readers with my writing. A minute gesture in comparison to their service but we can never thank them enough. Take care!

[Misery]

Another fine tribute from a deeply caring poet.

For gracious hearts such as thine,
They watch upon a wall and hold upon a line.

[Dara]

That is simply beautiful! This one is for you and all the other 'brothers and sisters'. Thank you for your service.

[Misery]

Was my honor to number among the ranks.

[ANTO]

"he can’t help but question just why he came,
to take part in a war where he must fight to kill
knowing other sons of mothers’ lay dying still." - so true - all mothers sons. Universal folly.
This is a sombre but poignant tribute Dara.
Well penned.

[Dara]

So very very true, Anto. Thank you so much for reading my poem and your heartfelt review!

[ANTO]

You're welcome Dara. God Bless