Inspired by IWO – photo by Richard Lowry
Piercing white sun, on a majestic hill.
Was it hot, or was it cold?
Silent sentinels guard the graceful slope.
One spot on the hill has been opened, ready to accept a new tenant.
Proud and Erect.
Apart from the crowd I stand.
Apart from the crowd I stand.
Damn the wind! Damn the sun!
They know the truth, and assault my eyes with it.
Proud and Erect.
Over and over, the words are repeated,
Over and over, the words are repeated,
as the trees sway and the flags gently ripple.
In the distance, slow salutes and disciplined,
well-practiced movements bring him close.
Did the birds stop singing?
Despite the preparation, the crack of the rifles makes all jump.
Despite the preparation, the crack of the rifles makes all jump.
The sound enters like a spike into every bone of every body.
The straight arrow flight thunders overhead... one missing.
Proud and Erect.
Finally I have it, the neatly folded triangle.
Finally I have it, the neatly folded triangle.
All blue and white—the red forever hidden inside.
I can wait no longer; this must be done.
Her eyes are strong.
Then, the dreadful words come out:
Then, the dreadful words come out:
"This flag is offered by a grateful nation
in memory of the faithful service of your husband."
A tear runs gently down her cheek.
Her eyes are still strong.
Proud and Erect.
Slow salutes and disciplined, well-practiced movements lower him.
Slow salutes and disciplined, well-practiced movements lower him.
The distant, mournful echoes of Taps accompany him on his final trip.
Proud and Erect.
Good-bye Jim!
To vote for John Cathcart:
Send email to MWSAPCA6@gmail.com OR vote on this blog!
Good-bye Jim!
To vote for John Cathcart:
Send email to MWSAPCA6@gmail.com OR vote on this blog!
No comments:
Post a Comment