Coming Home

The flight controller solemnly guides another aircraft in-bound. The plane safely lands, smoking tires delicately kiss the ground. The pilot reverently tells the tower he has twenty-one souls aboard. Alas, his passengers lie in flag-draped coffins, 'tis sad to record. Misty eyes are seen upon the faces of the honor guard here and there, As they handle the coffins of their brothers with tender, loving care. Chaplains intone quiet words of comfort, leading a final parade, To honor them with lasting tribute for their righteous crusade. Brave American heroes, who sacrificed all upon the field of strife, Now safely sheltered in the arms of God, who promised eternal life. Tho' they gallantly performed their duty with honor and dedication, Sadly, they won't parade or hear the acclaim of a grateful nation. Brave patriots will be borne to their rest in hallowed ground, To await the clarion call of Gabriel's triumphant sound. Honor guards will fire the gun salute upon the sergeant's command. The plaintive tones of "Taps" will echo throughout the land. Tho' twenty-one American families' lives will be changed forever, They take comfort knowing that their sons died for freedom's endeavor. They placed the destiny of their country above their very own, To ensure that our hard-won liberties will ne'er be overthrown! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired © All Rights Reserved Placed No. 2 in Constance's "Scavenger Hunt" Contest - August 2010