Emile Pinet Poet Quatrain

Sent To War

A boy just turned eighteen was
sent to the Vietnam War.
And as a lamb among wolves
he didn't know what lay in store.

When it came to kill or die,
he showed himself to be brave.
Yet part of him died inside,
buried in a shell-shocked grave.

Forced to take a human life,
he got high on heroin.
And plugged his ears to the screams,
not sure they were genuine.

Having survived his nightmare,
he was sent home with his pain.
And the reception he got;
hurt him all over again.

Angry protesters cursed him,
there was no hero's parade.
And shamed by his countrymen,
he felt betrayed and afraid.

It's been over fifty years,
yet no one has thanked him still.
And he's accepted in his
heart that no one ever will.

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Line Gauthier May 12, 2018 at 10:43 PM A most touching poem, Emile, particularly the first and last stanzas. Well penned.

Richard Nnoli February 4, 2015 at 5:33 PM powerful message here emily, doe sad but with a truth, i love the way u write richard Emile Pinet February 4, 2015 at 7:05 PM Thanks again Richard, for your support. Emile.

Jimmi Canada January 29, 2015 at 2:03 PM He must feel not unlike the animals that only survive in captivity. This poem is tragic, I love it. Emile Pinet January 29, 2015 at 6:22 PM Thanks Jimmi, your input is welcome. Emile.

Timothy Emmons January 28, 2015 at 8:48 PM Of all of our wars and conflicts this one was overwhelmingly unexcepted by the people back home. Anyone who has not experienced war do not and will never know what we as veterans feel, what we give up. The very part of our soul that is ripped from us. This is something that is with us till we die. Thank you brother. Emile Pinet January 29, 2015 at 9:23 AM Your words say it all, thank you. Emile.

David Meade January 28, 2015 at 8:27 PM Thank-you --- though the sentiment may seem hollow now . . . it is heartfelt. Without the warrior we would not be free -- and freedom is a precious gift, a gift that takes a heavy cost to pay. Deep are the pains carried in the heart of the warrior and their families. 7 Emile Pinet January 29, 2015 at 9:25 AM When a thank you is heartfelt, nothing more need be said, thank you. Emile

Bill Yates January 28, 2015 at 5:42 PM I agree with the sentiment. Emile Pinet January 28, 2015 at 8:10 PM thanks