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.104Please respect copyright.PENANAtcjopJgSEM
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER104Please respect copyright.PENANAT6osJutiMC
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,104Please respect copyright.PENANAkx0mkobALy
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,104Please respect copyright.PENANAvn8ueaENf1
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,104Please respect copyright.PENANAPbyz1YYJgs
And brought your body back to family.104Please respect copyright.PENANAJ19XpeAZg5
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Later in a ritual of their own,104Please respect copyright.PENANAWc6e5dTCP0
They would name a field airport in your name,104Please respect copyright.PENANARavN62Gbq4
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,104Please respect copyright.PENANAyXL1ForAaP
Their memory now your eternal flame.104Please respect copyright.PENANA0lt5bArSwx
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I do not know your rank, your name, your face,104Please respect copyright.PENANA8Q1SFUFuLe
I only know that I am in your debt,104Please respect copyright.PENANAucDEUjyXlO
Who for your family can take your place?104Please respect copyright.PENANAzqhCGlTeuS
Our debt to them we must never forget.104Please respect copyright.PENANAfOH9AR4XGz
104Please respect copyright.PENANAKdSoEgSTQV
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,104Please respect copyright.PENANAPC10JPhz2v
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.104Please respect copyright.PENANAb5r33PMJR4