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.75Please respect copyright.PENANADx2A4aO5uA
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER75Please respect copyright.PENANALn9S62LRAf
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,75Please respect copyright.PENANA87YITswEQn
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,75Please respect copyright.PENANAHShyCWpUyW
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,75Please respect copyright.PENANAo9pjaQdGSN
And brought your body back to family.75Please respect copyright.PENANAUPTKN7dZe3
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Later in a ritual of their own,75Please respect copyright.PENANAegZBTe3Ihg
They would name a field airport in your name,75Please respect copyright.PENANAcpQxJB4Qqi
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,75Please respect copyright.PENANAMad4GY4EFa
Their memory now your eternal flame.75Please respect copyright.PENANAbIwQ0ngSuT
75Please respect copyright.PENANAfABXdUdqzK
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,75Please respect copyright.PENANAhVqHUTAVQf
I only know that I am in your debt,75Please respect copyright.PENANA6uvkEKWe60
Who for your family can take your place?75Please respect copyright.PENANAjtkMPrq34b
Our debt to them we must never forget.75Please respect copyright.PENANA1Zua7hkCu9
75Please respect copyright.PENANAaioijHgmRI
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,75Please respect copyright.PENANAgdD7MP5gJ7
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.75Please respect copyright.PENANAQzV70wnQ7G