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,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdeDnTWcq9h
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIK97Mw3amV
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWjamVbJTYu
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0saG0Fe5N3
They would name a field airport in your name,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGaZCDL6sZH
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj9s8SCQpTD
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZDliOlnd5
I only know that I am in your debt,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnmsOU7M0Vm
Who for your family can take your place?16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQjEPd78PiT
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuUJHspvcQE
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoKE0haL10g
