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,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkA8PYpmVH
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1N4LYfscx8
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVUi55rhNA
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVEbBqE5zSX
They would name a field airport in your name,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3fPsfL4hm
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnh7lRoa1z3
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOm8BRvpfUF
I only know that I am in your debt,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOb2FxFg3DZ
Who for your family can take your place?78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡix5m6MAkLF
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FH0pOL0zr
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.78Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ53qPg5tpBG
