The following sonnet is based on a true story related to me by a family member who is a special forces Parajumper. 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. ("Quiet soldiers" is a term some special forces members use to describe themselves.)
DEATH OF A QUIET SOLDIER
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2115XPLvUb
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1fOP40WHMD
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxmYMKNwDFW
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wT2WvYTVe
They would name a field airport in your name,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPwnIwyDoIE
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgo7EHOHfP2
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgkhWQKX8Zu
I only know that I am in your debt,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqj6Cz4oUz2
Who for your family can take your place?362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡls4Qq1Nc6t
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkiFwIlNHpv
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGxR6Lqk9OC
and then Add to home screen.