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,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs7kZFf9WXz
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT36jCCEJaW
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLRSxy2hHw1
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovUwG1IJ50
They would name a field airport in your name,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeSMoD9J3bw
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGDORgFbCbK
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK36Dv1Wjwy
I only know that I am in your debt,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwvJ5J3ox0
Who for your family can take your place?7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeNAXSrtk1t
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyX57dstCjF
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.7Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNU4u4eExvC
