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,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqHmKEd6ii9
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyYV3RjYbU0
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpcgIL0LH9
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3GIQX5bTg
They would name a field airport in your name,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiGFHiscI5
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjuAZ99jaA1
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUpxjdJCSR
I only know that I am in your debt,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSjKViZ9J1C
Who for your family can take your place?19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XpRNfvpE4
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZt9izCbvf5
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wWaChJx6j
