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.100Please respect copyright.PENANAFW2HnF1one
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER100Please respect copyright.PENANAqt1x9AmJ9p
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,100Please respect copyright.PENANAMZUWt0mBgJ
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,100Please respect copyright.PENANAYBQW10Tc17
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,100Please respect copyright.PENANAn1SeBiyIS3
And brought your body back to family.100Please respect copyright.PENANAPF72cWNtky
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Later in a ritual of their own,100Please respect copyright.PENANAwtyk3P1j7e
They would name a field airport in your name,100Please respect copyright.PENANAwiYZOK31zS
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,100Please respect copyright.PENANAdCmb7ooeTT
Their memory now your eternal flame.100Please respect copyright.PENANAdjOjFMBK3m
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I do not know your rank, your name, your face,100Please respect copyright.PENANA43OqkjqFSY
I only know that I am in your debt,100Please respect copyright.PENANA28gJbCXRJJ
Who for your family can take your place?100Please respect copyright.PENANA1zU8mqfR0O
Our debt to them we must never forget.100Please respect copyright.PENANAEtcBEfyJ95
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The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,100Please respect copyright.PENANAsHvXALciQx
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.100Please respect copyright.PENANAzLfTbwwVOX