One of Texas's Best

“Back in my day” his stories all would start
I’d  lean in close to listen though I knew ‘em all by heart
He was a living legend, one of Texas’ best
Not just another lawman with a tin star on his chest

He fought along “RIP” Ford & John Coffee Hayes
When Texas was wooly & wild, back in the good old days
“One Riot, One Ranger” I’ve heard it said many times before
from fighting off Commanches to turning the tide of a range war

A Ranger never faltered, never imagined he could lose a fight
He’d  go hell bent for leather just to turn a wrong to right.
From Nueces to Salado Creek he patrolled the border land
Dealing out swift justice with a smoking Colt sitting easy in hand

Hardin, Iron Jacket & Sam Bass thought they could get away
The Rangers ran them down to ground, the stories still are told today
Great Granddad was a hero, one of Texas’s best
Not just another lawman with a tin star on his chest

He passed on the legacy & the stories I’ll now tell
as I hear his voice echo when I start off,  “ I remember well”
So tip your hat & raise your glass to the Rangers out there on patrol
and to all the Shadow Rangers, Rest in Peace, God rest your soul
Copyright © | Year Posted 2005

Poem

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Esquire Avatar
December 20, 2008 at 11:47 PM
Catherine, Congratulations on YOUR POEM " One of Texas's Best " being Featured this week Superb Tribute to YOUR Granddad and the Shadow Rangers...HG
Pig Knuckles Avatar
December 18, 2008 at 10:32 PM
Wow Catherine, what a wonderful poem of history you have composed here that reflects your wonderful gift of writing. Congratulations for being featured as I say Thank You for sharing a little of yourself and especially your talent of writing with us all. Wonderful Poem... MPK
Jordan Avatar
December 18, 2008 at 3:47 PM
Catehrine - Congrats on having your poetry featured this week – Merry Christmas & God Bless, MJ
George   Avatar
December 16, 2008 at 6:31 PM
Dear Catherine, you have created a masterpiece in this form of poetry. You should be proud. lainie
Mason Avatar
December 16, 2008 at 3:13 PM
This is fantastic Catherine ... one of the best I've read in sometime and a very well-deserved selection to be featured here at the Soup!! Congratulations!
Austin Avatar
December 16, 2008 at 5:33 AM
Hey, I'm from the west, my dad, as a young man, played poker with Buffalo Bill on the railroad from North Platte, Nebraska to Denver...guess that dates me....and I dig this great poem. Congrats on the selection. Love, daver
Winter Avatar
December 15, 2008 at 5:20 PM
Congratulations on your featured write of the week! Warmest wishes for a beautiful holiday season. Love, Shar
Brown Avatar
December 15, 2008 at 6:13 AM
Congratulations on your well deserved poetry being featured this week Catherine. Love, Carol
 Avatar
December 14, 2008 at 6:15 PM
Nice reflection on a piece of our history. Nice tribute to your grandfather. Love the last line! Congratulations on having your poem featured. Karen
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