Robert L. Hinshaw Poet Ode

Ode To Jerry: 1930-1952

One of the greatest pals that I have ever had,
Was a high school buddy and fellow grad!
He was renowned as the notorious class clown,
And his antics evoked from educators many a frown!

We had so many great times around Hagerstown!
'Twas hard to keep our youthful exuberance down,
As we raced up and down those tranquil streets,
Eluding frustrated cops on their nightly beats!

Often we double-dated with our sweethearts,
In my old '37 Ford that ran in fits and starts!
But our girlie friends didn't seem to mind,
As we cruised about with our arms entwined!

Upon graduation, in the Air Force I enlisted.
I asked him to enlist with me, but no he insisted!
In just a few years after we had parted,
The terrible conflict in Korea was started!

He answered the summons of his nation,
As others before him had met that obligation.
Mournful "Taps" was played over a hero's grave,
Alas, this time for beloved Jerry so gallant and brave!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
© All Rights Reserved

PFC Gerald V. McCoy was KIA, 23 Oct 1952, Triangle Hill, North Korea.  

Entry for michael hornschurch's "Ode To A Friend" Contest

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Ralph Taylor July 29, 2011 at 10:56 AM Congrats on your win, Sarge. Awesome piece, my friend. Well deserved win. Nice going. Una's procedure was very successful. The artery was 90% blocked. Now clear with stent inserted. Feels better. Now working on lung problem. Walking pneumonia. Taking steroid and antibiotic which should clear it up. You guys have a super weekend. Ralphie

Jack Horne July 27, 2011 at 2:37 PM Very touching piece, Bob. Many congrats on all your wins: )

Carolyn Devonshire July 27, 2011 at 9:00 AM Never surprised to see you in the top tier, Bob. Congratulations! Love, Carolyn

Kabuteng P.Ink K. July 26, 2011 at 11:28 AM What a wonderful tribute for a friend, Bob! I can only imagine how much his loss has impacted you-- Super congrats on your win :D

Sunflower Poetess July 26, 2011 at 11:12 AM Bob, wonderful friendship you had with Jerry. Congrats on your win with this Ode to a friend. Love, Glenna

Joseph Osita July 26, 2011 at 10:25 AM Congrats on your win with this powerful ode!

Nette Onclaud July 26, 2011 at 7:35 AM so moving, robert...happy thumbs up to you on your stunning win! :) huggs

Carol Sunshine Brown July 26, 2011 at 7:05 AM Congratulations on your winning poem in Michael's "Ode to a Friend" contest Bob. Love, Carol

Bob Quigley July 26, 2011 at 12:02 AM A wonderful write Robert. Even the sad memories are precious. Congrats on your win

Linda-Marie Sweetheart July 25, 2011 at 11:32 PM Congrats Bob on your worthy second place win with this dynamic touching poem on Jerry.. amazing friend and write luv.. once again happy to be sharing second with such unique talent my friend..luv..

Michael Hornschuch July 25, 2011 at 9:47 PM Robert, your poem was touching, as my first contest...this was tough...I live in Colorado Springs, CO. home of Ft. Carson...while I have not lost a friend, I've lost many a 'son' in our community..congrats on your win in my contest~ Michael

Lee Ramage July 25, 2011 at 9:36 PM What a wonderful poem and dedication for your friend. I am very sorry for your loss. Lee

Dr.Ram Mehta July 25, 2011 at 9:31 PM My congratulations on this win in the contest of Michael,Bob

Elizabeth Wesley July 22, 2011 at 7:26 AM What a wonderful tribute to a dear friend, loss is great but memories comfort.

Black Eyed Susan July 21, 2011 at 10:33 AM a beautiful dedication to your friend, Robert. Touching. (hagerstown, md?)

Zzzzz Zzzzz July 21, 2011 at 5:21 AM A touching ode and a fine tribute to an old friend. A refreshingly written piece, despite the sad finale. Best wishes, Robert.

Don Johnson July 20, 2011 at 4:35 PM Sad it is when good friends die, often ask, wonder why, This man fought and died for his country, and a vacum is left on one tree hill, in the heart of Robert Hinshaw still. Be brave Bob:( Don

Carolyn Devonshire July 20, 2011 at 3:19 PM 22 is far too young to die. Put those who declare war in the front lines, not innocent youth. Very touching, Bob. Winning wishes coming your way for the contest. Love, Carolyn

Judy Ball July 20, 2011 at 2:06 PM WoW! A fine tribute to a brave man and good friend. My dad served in the USAF for 27yrs. Saw active duty in WW@ and the Korean War. Went around the world 7 times. My hubby served in the USN and was in the Gulf of Tonkin on the USS Constellation. Good write my friend. God Bless, JB

James Peranteau July 20, 2011 at 12:18 PM Though my wars, as 'my friends' were civil; they were quite the hardship, even with the loss of life! I understand the plight of the forlorn wars, many of those living, wish not to relive, and my heart goes out to you and your loves dear poet, and for your write...I sad with you. Have a long journey sir ! Much love, james

Linda-Marie Sweetheart July 20, 2011 at 12:17 PM a sensitive recounting of your best bud Bob and his service to country luv.. beautiful rhyme .. good luck in the contest my friend.. a definite contender for top billing luv... always.. .. nice dedication...

Elaine George July 20, 2011 at 11:24 AM Beautiful dedication to a friend, Robert. He died so young and so honorably. Top notch poem and sure to top the winners circle. Thank you for sharing and also, thank you for your more than kind comments today re: my posting - When the Time is Right. Love, Lainie