One Foot In Hell

“For they fought with a ferocity unequaled, as though they had one foot in Hell.” Resilient and strong they valiantly marched on For they were Spartan warriors bred to fight And the painful hunger in their bellies Was the very least of their worries because There would be no sleep for anyone tonight. Forward, forward, another league more! And their muscle and sinew did suffer, But their solemn mission was quite clear To repel their enemy with sword and spear And act as a ferocious human buffer. There were many among them who Had thoughts of their loved ones, Now numerous dusty miles hence And prayers for safe return echoed in their minds As they marched to their bloody offense. “Onward, onward!” The officers cried out As their hearts pounded like drums in their ears, For they would fight to the death With their very last breath, to protect Sparta And the ones they loved dear.