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.ＰＥＮＡＮＡunJJ6Wba3B
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq4qP58AlmQ
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnx9exmwbS
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz6o6Kk6yOc
They would name a field airport in your name,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6913CCrfg
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbvipbFQiw
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNYXNZEbaW
I only know that I am in your debt,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg0OLXgN6CO
Who for your family can take your place?362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAvpxiuqzLe
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXusjlo187P
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.362Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEyNxbeEWnb
and then Add to home screen.