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.80Please respect copyright.PENANA2m7IEUWaeo
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER80Please respect copyright.PENANA5dwsaZ3Nrr
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,80Please respect copyright.PENANAQnPsgNvrM3
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,80Please respect copyright.PENANAbMhu7ghgvS
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,80Please respect copyright.PENANArWReg9drxq
And brought your body back to family.80Please respect copyright.PENANAiZPlPGGt39
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Later in a ritual of their own,80Please respect copyright.PENANA44qbZWJvER
They would name a field airport in your name,80Please respect copyright.PENANAiEXM1HqKbs
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,80Please respect copyright.PENANAEJwAYHNd4H
Their memory now your eternal flame.80Please respect copyright.PENANABjZSk20HO7
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I do not know your rank, your name, your face,80Please respect copyright.PENANAJIDKTbLMNJ
I only know that I am in your debt,80Please respect copyright.PENANA2tBAH6eCnN
Who for your family can take your place?80Please respect copyright.PENANAsO88cXDIhc
Our debt to them we must never forget.80Please respect copyright.PENANAkJD91aakZC
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The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,80Please respect copyright.PENANAYW40xPJeuI
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.80Please respect copyright.PENANAMcN3FT9YnP