Bicycle Playing Cards

Around since 1885,
These playing cards contain
A fascinating history
That Google helped obtain.

My favorite fact’s from World War II.
(It’s more than rumored lore.)
Some special decks were sent as gifts
To prisoners of war.

These U.S. soldiers, held in camps
In Germany, did learn
That moistening the cards would yield
A map for their return.

Escape routes cleverly concealed
Within the layered cards
Would likely not be noticed by
The German soldier guards.

In Vietnam, as well, some decks
With only Ace of Spades,
Were sent to the Americans 
To use in jungle raids.

The Viet Cong were so afraid
Of how this Ace appeared,
Just seeing one would make them flee
So villages were cleared.

While we are playing Solitaire,
Casino, War or Spit,
We should remember how those cards
Helped troops, if just a whit.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Rigoler Avatar
August 3, 2020 at 6:36 PM
How ingenious! I had no idea! Thanks for this interesting information. / M
Krutsinger Avatar
August 1, 2020 at 10:51 PM
I had no idea! I love this! Thank you for new knowledge of history today.
Leffanta Avatar
August 1, 2020 at 2:40 PM
I will also FAV this as it clearly demonstrates your many, many talents and abilities! Aloha! Rico
Andresen Avatar
August 1, 2020 at 2:48 AM
- A great story, Ilene ... even though I do not know the "Bicycle Cards" :) - Have a lovely weekend :) - hugs // Anne-Lise :)
Watt Avatar
August 1, 2020 at 12:35 AM
Great "war stories" I didn't know about until I opened the ilenopedia! Great write ~ John
Kauffman Avatar
July 31, 2020 at 9:48 PM
Oh ilene! I just love this - a FAV! Not only does the poem bring back memories of "Bicycle cards," on rainy summer afternoons - have a few in my collection - but the story of how they were used is amazing!!! This is a gem! Thank you for sharing their very special history!
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace