From "reveille" To "taps"
A cavalryman's day was guided by a series of bugle calls,
The dulcet tones reverberating within the palisade walls.
Wanting to hurl a boot at the bugler for "Reveille" at dawn,
Instead he stumbled from his cot at "Assemble" on the lawn.
Before he had breakfast, the horses must be tended to,
So "Stable Call" was sounded to assemble a working crew.
"Breakfast Call" invited him for coffee, bread and bacon.
"Sick Call" was announced ere daily tasks were undertaken.
"Fatigue Call" called for troops to "police" the parade ground trim,
Then, at "Guard Mount" assignments were made at old sarge's whim.
The dreaded "Drill Call" meant many weary hours in the saddle,
As sergeants berated recruits, trying to keep them astraddle!
At last, "Dinner Call" for a repast of pork bellies and beans,
Then "Water Call" to water the horses and fill empty canteens.
Later called to quarters to ready for "Assemble For Dress Parade,"
They paraded their steeds, in uniform with gleaming saber blade!"
"Supper Call" sounded meaning more pork bellies and beans.
After "Roll Call" they entertained themselves by any means.
After the sun slowly descended in the vast reaches of the west,
Plaintive "Taps" closed the day, bringing to them welcome rest!
Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
(© All Rights Reserved)
Copyright © Robert L. Hinshaw | Year Posted 2010
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