Boat People

To those who keep the seas free They place themselves board tiny boats at sea, floating alone, hoping for savior's mast. Their homes overran by threshing V.C. We approached, fearful faces were made fast. Their hungry eyes looking upward for trust, one by one we hauled them aboard, swing and hoist. There were women, children, and old men, we must! A tent city constructed, their tears moist. We sank their boat when they were safe aboard. Grenades to the hull and below she sank. We sailed them to Hong Kong, for free room and board. Leaving them, we knew for freedom they thank. People seek out freedom from oppression. My shipmates and I survive a lesson.