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.140Please respect copyright.PENANASLyPOLYqyy
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER140Please respect copyright.PENANAx37kgqnzfZ
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,140Please respect copyright.PENANAFwbJXj4CHz
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,140Please respect copyright.PENANA8k0FXZFjaZ
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,140Please respect copyright.PENANAJynI6Vr1cs
And brought your body back to family.140Please respect copyright.PENANATNSLuipKSO
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Later in a ritual of their own,140Please respect copyright.PENANAszVgWK9mjo
They would name a field airport in your name,140Please respect copyright.PENANAgD8W84cfm2
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,140Please respect copyright.PENANA3Fihadh1vI
Their memory now your eternal flame.140Please respect copyright.PENANAW9eaR9NFeu
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I do not know your rank, your name, your face,140Please respect copyright.PENANAvcCOURrDpy
I only know that I am in your debt,140Please respect copyright.PENANAakNSUylWrT
Who for your family can take your place?140Please respect copyright.PENANAL2AuO8XIHc
Our debt to them we must never forget.140Please respect copyright.PENANAhu4Ty10b9T
140Please respect copyright.PENANAKL0ZdMkOzz
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,140Please respect copyright.PENANA1hqsK3fuPj
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.140Please respect copyright.PENANAX9gOGdWJHk