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https://fthmb.tqn.com/hKI6fumMcZcYvTdnWyZLPQDB3Iw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale()/world-war-two-memorial-in-washington--dc-589147444-597a92ccc4124400100339dd.jpg

The Old Warrior

“The Old Warrior”

They look at me and shake their heads
That non-compliant taking up this bed
They whisper in a tone that says it all
And hurry to enter a note so small.

Do they know I buried my wife a month ago?
That my time to grieve may be too slow
I cannot see my pills so well these days
For my eyesight is slowly fading away.

I would love to tell them of the time
I fought the enemy behind their lines
I long to tell them that in my prime
I worked all day in the hot sunshine
Defending this country with sweat and blood 
Earning the right to occupy this bed.

All I ask is that you treat me good
And hold my hand when the demons come
Look at me as you would your Dad
Envision me in the life I had
And when I slowly close my eyes
Salute this soldier and let me die.
Deborah M. Kelly?
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Lewis Iii Avatar
April 19, 2021 at 2:10 PM
Beautiful Write
Edmonds  Avatar
April 19, 2021 at 1:59 PM
A most moving write Deb, veterans deserve the greatest respect in life and also in death.... Belle
Fenn Avatar
April 19, 2021 at 12:58 PM
This is a very moving poem. Vets deserve our respect, no matter where on the political spectrum we are, and the deserve great health, housing, and education benefits, but sadly, they’re still under-served.
Legros Kelley Avatar
March 7, 2021 at 9:48 PM
Another great poem. This one tugs deeply at my heart. My dad fought in WWII. I appreciate this poem. God bless you Deb <3 ~BJ
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