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,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiUkvbqplC
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxoMsny09kc
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCpw7Jf604b
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqoetITlBv
They would name a field airport in your name,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2A0zKDtm2O
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4KvaDK8CJ
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsinA1rXkEy
I only know that I am in your debt,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYfMS1qUse6
Who for your family can take your place?66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUpmE4A36aL
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1sVSsBAw1P
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.66Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPCE4eN5NZA
