Smoke an Ashes

Reflections is that all we are when time has passed

those that stood made a final stand

their strength resolved

their hearts full of valor

across foreign lands they traveled

carrying upon their chest

the mark of representation

brave and steadfast they stepped

unto the breach

not knowing if it would be their last

the sounds of shells falling

bullets cracking past them so

the fear unmeasurable

and yet still they advanced

brothers fell screams where uttered

cries and tears shed

and still they pushed ever forward

My Grandfathers 

Both served with courage and faith and belief

One in Burma 

whom must have seen heard things

I can never quantify

The other in London

as a Fireman during the Blitz

Both serving us

protecting us

saving us

with the support of the masses

back home 

be it for the war drive

or to feed the country

no stone was left upturned

in the drive to rid the world of those

that seeked to destroy all that was good

Now they have both passed 

into a world of rest

they have earned their place

along side others who gave

all they could

to protect our liberties

And so these reflections draw me to now

and the men and women who stand and serve 

they too brave and steadfast

strong and resoloute in their duty

an yet

something has changed

there is a loss of resepct

understanding

support

for these fine brave people

who give their all for us

they ask for nothing in return

no medals no accolades

just the rightful respect they deserve

and yet

as I was reminded by the past

fighting in Burma as considered as

The Forgotten War

Their actions Their duties

left unnoted

their bravery their courage

unnoticed

and now it seems to be repeated

as fine young people

stand for civil liberties

in foreign countries

so I say this

why should the 11th Day

of the 11th Month

be the only day we remember them ?

shouldn't we remember them 

EVERYDAY

and give thanks and respect

to those that stand and take

all that is thrown at them

and then in turn throw it back

and yet

come home to nurse a new born child

love their partner

they just like us are human

with loving kind hearts 

whom feel pain shed tears

laugh smile

and give freely

perhaps we should stop

and think

lest we forget

Happy Remembrance Day

~X~