Open Poetry #36 |
The Veteran |
Tndeer1 Member
since 2005-06-24
Posts 87TN. USA |
This was what I saw the first time my husband and I had to go to the VA Hosp. when he first became sick. This poem also represents ALL Branches of the Service, not just Army. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "TheVeteran" Today I was reminded of what time could not erase As I walked through the halls I felt a sadness in this place A building filled with history our books will never see Their stories are the pages locked inside their memory It's one of many you will find that's scattered everywhere These people come here hoping to receive the proper care I saw a few in wheelchairs and so many used a cane Some walked just fine but in their eyes was where I saw the pain These Heroes have been marked for life all here surrounding me They've shed their blood while other's died to keep this country free I still remember stories of a war my dad went through Each one was told with Army Pride he called it"World War II" And later"The Korean War"forced troops to say good-bye Because Korea's North and South could not see eye to eye Then"Vietnam"decided too raise up it's ugly head Like all the wars, the damage left so many people dead When troops came home they had to face another kind of war A"War of Words"that added wounds as if they needed more The latest war was televised for all the world to see Called"Operation Desert Storm"performed so perfectly This war had ended quickly but our troops cannot forget They're constantly reminded that the"Storm's"not over yet These wars do not discriminate religion, sex or race The bombs, grenades and poison gas take lives we can't replace And weapons don't have boundaries they claim what's in their way What will it take to stop these wars right here, right now, today Our troops are thought so highly of when they are called to war But when it's over they are not remembered anymore And what about the one's still lost are they forgotten too? Is anyone still searching for the one's who fought for you These men and women suffer more than you will ever know When war is over they still fight a war that doesn't show Each one deserves the very best for what they have been through Your proof is VA Hospitals I'm sure there's one near you We all want Peace and Harmony but something's always wrong These buildings might become extinct if we could get along My husband fought the last two wars, which stole the heart he had He wears that look of war abuse just like my precious dad I don't have all the answers but I know one thing for sure The anger has to leave before a healing can occur America is free because of Veterans today And more of them still yet to come will also have to pay So when you exercise your rights remember"Why"you can You see, I can't forget because I am"The Veteran" © By: Freda H. Babinski 9-2-97 I dedicate this to every Veteran, past, present and future."God Bless You" Tndeer1 |
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© Copyright 2005 Freda H. Babinski - All Rights Reserved | |||
Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
This should be read outloud on the 4th, to as many Vets as possible. What a wonderful heartbeat you have shared! Hugs to you, and all the men and women who have given so much. quote: |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
You are indeed a poet with a mission. Beautiful work. martyjo |
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Tndeer1 Member
since 2005-06-24
Posts 87TN. USA |
Your words are very much appreciated. This poem is the one I get the most requests for every yr. I'm always glad to share any of my writings. Thank You So Much and God Bless! Tndeer1 |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
And God Bless You for thinking of all of our service men and women! |
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JamesMichael Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-16
Posts 33336Kapolei, Hawaii, USA |
Well said...A fantastic flow of words...James |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
And what better message to read, this day. Thank you. |
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passing shadows Member Empyrean
since 1999-08-26
Posts 45577displaced |
oh dear... I'm misty-eyed |
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Tndeer1 Member
since 2005-06-24
Posts 87TN. USA |
Thank You All, For the comments and the warmth you've shown to this Veteran today. Yes, the last line of this piece is true. I Served in the US Army during the Vietnam Era. God Bless! Tndeer1 |
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Jeep Monkey Member
since 2005-12-18
Posts 96Chaos |
This is beautifully written. I volunteer with Widows of Deceased Veterans Foundation (WDVF) - and your writing brings tears to my eyes. I'm glad you posted this here. |
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majnu
since 2002-10-13
Posts 1088SF Bay Area |
excellent. -majnu |
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froggy Senior Member
since 2003-06-23
Posts 1893Michigan |
Tndeer 1 A wonderful words you have composed. I am married to a Veteran myself,know those visits to the hospital. Thank-you for sharing this. :-) |
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JL Member Ascendant
since 2004-04-01
Posts 6128Texas, USA |
An extraordinary write from a heart pierced by life’s most misunderstood reality. Life and liberty is always at risk, at all times. Most of us get it. However, so many live in a fog of an unreal reality through entertainment, “It doesn’t affect me” attitude, “Peace not war”, or “Let someone else do it.” Sad as it is, we are in a battle to survive as free people every day. If we were to recall the American military from all foreign countries and have them retire and become civilians, we would be a third world country within an hour. My respect and sincere thanks to you both for your service to the citizens of this great country, United States of America. God Bless You!! JL |
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