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.22Please respect copyright.PENANAc3XeyrRDGE
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER22Please respect copyright.PENANAm6RJUAy5Dy
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,22Please respect copyright.PENANAqhDFCqIkqE
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,22Please respect copyright.PENANAAL3LJtALZb
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,22Please respect copyright.PENANAoREr3Hzgqj
And brought your body back to family.22Please respect copyright.PENANAgHAj5O5xCB
22Please respect copyright.PENANAoj5wfqYmE8
Later in a ritual of their own,22Please respect copyright.PENANAGtNJL3oFi2
They would name a field airport in your name,22Please respect copyright.PENANAGcooEcty4C
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,22Please respect copyright.PENANAGpogIkp5IO
Their memory now your eternal flame.22Please respect copyright.PENANAfV8JyOn9FE
22Please respect copyright.PENANAoHfgKI1fVi
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,22Please respect copyright.PENANALYhukGMbeZ
I only know that I am in your debt,22Please respect copyright.PENANAu89ZdDlnpL
Who for your family can take your place?22Please respect copyright.PENANAbx8J3AOWlf
Our debt to them we must never forget.22Please respect copyright.PENANAU3Godw3OUn
22Please respect copyright.PENANAEGZdmU2Uj6
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,22Please respect copyright.PENANAlh4NR557Y8
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.22Please respect copyright.PENANACDGDIKFVo5