Cemetery Sounds

While strolling through a military cemetery about a week or so ago, I became transfixed by the sounds wafting about that serene plateau. An inviting bench beckoned me to sit and muse a while, And gaze upon those hallowed grounds and my varied thoughts compile. Over just a little ways I heard Old Glory snapping in the breeze, And the soothing soughs of zephyrs meandering amongst the trees. I enjoyed the sweet melodies of birds as they flitted to and fro, And the water's melodic hymn as it flowed in a rippling brook below. I was startled by the rhythmic clip-clop of horses' hooves across the way. Alas, a funeral was being conducted for a fallen hero that very day. A flag-draped coffin was borne by a caisson followed by an honor guard, The measured cadence of their shiny boots striking the pavement hard! I was rapt as I heard the Chaplain offer his words of consolation, And the Sergeant's remarks as he presented the flag from a grateful nation. I heard the muted sobs of kin as the flag was presented on ben'ded knee, To the soldier's little son who I judged to be around the age of three. The twenty-one gun salute rent the afternoon air as if fired as one, To honor a gallant comrade for his faithful service and laurels won. I stood as the haunting notes of "Taps" echoed o'er the plain. My eyes welled with tears as they always do when I hear that sad refrain. Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired (© All Rights Reserved)