Through Their Eyes

"Vietnam Vet Eyes" (working title)

Step by step we took the lead,

A decision to keep away the bleed;

For my team to be safe,

Across the jungle we must strafe;

Blend with the green,

Can't be seen;

Every breath could be the last,

Ending with a scream or a leg ripping blast;

So quiet we must,

For the lives behind in us trust;

Never known enemies around,

Just a little bullet to us is bound;

Peacefulness is a tall tale sign,

Calm before the storm is where we draw the line;

Bullets whiz by,

Leaves dusting the eye;

Screams filling the air,

Squadron guys getting 100 yard stare;

What thoughts flood in,

A cold feeling creeping up their skin;

Is this the end,

Or just another split in life's bend;

Seconds of thought,

Flooding tears fought;

Off your knees no more slack,

I need you to cover my back;

Our peace will be found,

When we are all homeward bound.

-sjm

24 April 2022