Anzacs of the Future
I watch them on parade,
Wearing medals won by relatives long dead
And poppies hand made.
I see expressions as cold as the grave,
As they remember the brave who fought in wars moving further away each day,
As they fade back, ever back into the mists of time.
This young generation from our great nation
Standing tall, marking their respect as best they can
With little knowledge and even less understanding of past deeds and sacrifices.
For them I have great despair if they should ever go to war,
With less discipline than those who went before
Relying on group decisions, never having been under a chain of command.
Their immune system already shot to pieces.
Fitness levels below par
And feet that have never seen boots.
Yet it may not be too late to change their fate,
While relative peace still prevails.
And only professionals are relied on to go to war in a few hot spots.
If we can ease them into a plan with enough discipline to help,
Whether in peace or in war to bring them back safe
And keep faith with those who once stood in their place.
Copyright © David Smith | Year Posted 2016
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem.
Please
Login
to post a comment