Scars and Stripes
They got them in service to their country
mementoes of it’s wars,
some for valor above and beyond
others for sweeping floors.
They all turned out in uniform
fulfilling the oath they took,
to protect and defend this country
we were proud of how they looked.
No matter draftee or volunteer
most were loyal and true,
earning the chevrons on their sleeves
protecting me and you.
All gave of themselves in some measure
a few were called to glory,
just a handful were broken in shame
but they too are part of the story.
Not all scars are where we can see
there are some that lurk inside,
coloring lives for years to come
with secrets they attempt to hide.
Some wounds of war will never heal
always having you by the throat,
affecting everything you do
how you think and feel and vote.
No, maimed and bleeding is not the worst
that can happen to people in war,
there are things more terrible
that haunt them forever more.
So stand up straight to wave and salute
when you see an American Vet,
their lives were on the line for yours and mine
these heroes deserve our respect.
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