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.144Please respect copyright.PENANAxyAeNfgPox
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER144Please respect copyright.PENANAMPMojTINlL
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,144Please respect copyright.PENANABdyzYgfRek
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,144Please respect copyright.PENANAjcQUAsEuCu
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,144Please respect copyright.PENANAKKCitHcmEs
And brought your body back to family.144Please respect copyright.PENANAwzZed9dRTF
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Later in a ritual of their own,144Please respect copyright.PENANAGNdOcwYFcW
They would name a field airport in your name,144Please respect copyright.PENANAo6hrV8J8u9
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,144Please respect copyright.PENANAxgMvQMWpkw
Their memory now your eternal flame.144Please respect copyright.PENANAw7Nzcob5no
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I do not know your rank, your name, your face,144Please respect copyright.PENANAqeKvfCsUZG
I only know that I am in your debt,144Please respect copyright.PENANAoMkGERb9mv
Who for your family can take your place?144Please respect copyright.PENANAL9XNEdsi45
Our debt to them we must never forget.144Please respect copyright.PENANA7LFoMllCnp
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The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,144Please respect copyright.PENANAVFbTOiHxB5
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.144Please respect copyright.PENANAK0vHq2GYRZ