No Song for These Heroes

Some soldiers receive medals for their bravery in war,
Or praise for their services on ships, air, or shore.
Men and women fight for world peace,
Continuous battles that never cease.

Make love, not war is an adage,
Where is the love? when wars are savage.
Wars cause death and destruction to all.
United, we stand, divided we fall.

There are no medals or words of praise,
Or sculpture busts or honour flags were raised,
For the victims of war, who through no fault of their own,
Have lost their homes, livelihoods and families,
And struggle alone.

Alone in a world that is alien to them
A world where you lose trust in your fellowmen.
Doubt creeps in, and the truth seems to hide,
But with their strong faith that comes from inside,

These courageous, faithful, stoic folk,
Even when they are down and broke
Soldier on and endure it all,
Until they hear a ceasefire call.

Unsung heroes everyone
Who, without cover and nowhere to run,
Lived in fear every day
Praying their enemies had gone away.

The world should give a rousing cheer,
A cheer that men and creatures hear
No medals made of solid gold,
Or regimental marches to behold

Was expected from these human beings
Who are the salt of the earth
Their fight for survival
It showed their strength of character and worth.

The survivors of these war heroes
It will not be recognised.
They had to suffer in silence,
As there were so many watchful eyes,

They would not want medals,
Medals would not be right
The world could raise a glass to them
That would bring pleasure and delight

A glass full of praise and friendship, too
A symbol of unity, a vow to stay true
To each other as much as we humanly can,
It should be the purpose of every man.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

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

M  Avatar
March 6, 2024 at 12:33 PM
So sad Shirley and so true! Wars purpose? All the suffering….for what?? And the way returned soldiers were treated…shameful!! You give them a voice my kind friend! Debx
Rodgers Avatar
March 4, 2024 at 3:02 PM
Dear Shirley, Your wonderful poem speaks volumes about the unsung heroes of war, those who endure silently and suffer profoundly. It’s a powerful reminder of the human cost and the resilience that resides within those who face unimaginable challenges. Your words poetically echo the longing for peace and unity in a world torn by strife. Let us raise our glasses in solidarity, honoring the strength and courage of those whose stories often go unheard. - Blessings, Daniel
Hawkins Avatar
March 4, 2024 at 6:31 PM
Thank you, Daniel, for your kind comment. I appreciate it very much. Take care, Shirley
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