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,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwnqTYwU2Qt
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrwRHqYtLtX
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYeRGEnTkQe
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCE50m8Vmz6
They would name a field airport in your name,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhkNXc7NznW
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3kjfNTOC8s
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEDMkfdCGtp
I only know that I am in your debt,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBXYl5P4zZA
Who for your family can take your place?33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPuxXO2i4K5
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZSnxSdUfdd
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.33Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLIbu1ldZFJ
