The following sonnet is based on a true story related to me by a family member who is a special forces Parajumper. 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. ("Quiet soldiers" is a term some special forces members use to describe themselves.)
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNL1zn5mNbF
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkspqp9b1dv
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJGu5vXr2Cy
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlo9F09T7A
They would name a field airport in your name,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzROL7hndhO
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLQsdOmSqME
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7pWHCym3zN
I only know that I am in your debt,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb12LWGG2BN
Who for your family can take your place?23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCF5TjJMFZH
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxWAaNusBc
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡASJZ7I89hP
