This week has been challenging for me to hear about the continuation of war in Ukraine and another mass shooting of children; not to mention the shootings last week of more innocent people. It’s senseless and traumatic. I read something that described the differences between Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is to remember those that never got out of uniform. Those children will never make it to adulthood.
As you know, dear reader, one way that I express myself to connect and heal with others is through my poetry. I have been fortunate enough to have met folks that have served in the Armed Forces. They each possess a strength that runs deep. One of them witnessed their friend losing his life in battle. I have no words that will comfort this loss, but I hope by writing and sharing this poem, he knows and you know that I care deeply for the traumatic loss of his life and I am eternally grateful for those that serve to protect our rights.
I’m dedicating this poem to those that have died for our freedom and those that continue to protect us on this Memorial Day Weekend.
GOODBYE SERGEANT
Every day I woke
with a weapon affixed to my body.
Each unholy night
brushed teeth
and drank warm water
with the others.
On my last patrol
I found an I.E.D.
with my name,
in blood.
Camouflage failed
with an enemy
I’d never met.
If I’m moving to the astral plane,
or somewhere we can’t imagine,
at least part of me still lives
in the eyes of a boy
who will always be waiting in Iowa.
Let’s chat soon.
With affection,
Carrie VS