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,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwIxIV8OmF
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4YRbxk6Ci
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYKFdZoAyF
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklnmTgmOz5
They would name a field airport in your name,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo1FxFQSfvS
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxkCDnd4tFO
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmd7rYo0JG
I only know that I am in your debt,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvGBSguuy4f
Who for your family can take your place?65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnfl6qQUML
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrrkbvfWFjI
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.65Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3NJAl5enxj
