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.130Please respect copyright.PENANA7WtAPIdndn
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER130Please respect copyright.PENANAcFxmKu8Agn
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,130Please respect copyright.PENANA1VO81yY4qQ
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,130Please respect copyright.PENANAHeSFm1WuEe
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,130Please respect copyright.PENANA82QeuUWegd
And brought your body back to family.130Please respect copyright.PENANAS5SmINo8bx
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Later in a ritual of their own,130Please respect copyright.PENANA3BChNfOIsG
They would name a field airport in your name,130Please respect copyright.PENANAyE2JELjvmE
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,130Please respect copyright.PENANATvhEvForQe
Their memory now your eternal flame.130Please respect copyright.PENANAXsDofKEPVr
130Please respect copyright.PENANAbXiX2aQWM3
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,130Please respect copyright.PENANAoaR25h4Pe2
I only know that I am in your debt,130Please respect copyright.PENANAaGq7hHZhTE
Who for your family can take your place?130Please respect copyright.PENANAWcg8jsbo7p
Our debt to them we must never forget.130Please respect copyright.PENANA6blipA2J3J
130Please respect copyright.PENANAgI76cULrUk
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,130Please respect copyright.PENANAiLT4ADr286
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.130Please respect copyright.PENANAogws4lF7ZM