The Veteran

There have been times in our land When our nation has had to take a stand. It first began at Bunker's Hill Where so many men were then killed. All through that war with the British King Men here in America were fighting and dying. They were the first "Veterans" of the US, When duty calls, there was always a surplus. Always men of courage it takes it seems Like those with Jackson at New Orleans. There were "Veterans" who fought both South and North When the country was split, her sons poured forth. Healing those wounds would take some time But in the end it came in line. Of course no one remembers the row with Spain Where America sent her men once again. The "War to End All Wars" was more than a saying As loved ones and sweethearts were left home praying. Oh, Chateau Thierry, the Argonne, Belleau Wood and more Are now in our history as battles of that war. Then came the biggest war of all When the world went crazy in '39's Fall. Our "Veterans" were there too, In Africa, Europe, and the Katmandu. From Casablanca and Casserein on Africa's shore, To Sicily, Anzio, Normandy, and the Bastogne's of that war. The Pacific saw its share of death and hell From the first bombs at Pearl Harbor to Gaudalcanal. Many "Veterans" died at Iwo Jima, Saipan, Okinawa too, They shed their blood for me and you. After the end, we thought we might have some order, Until the Communists in Korea crossed the border. The Vietnam era was one of upheaval and race, Some "Veterans" coming home even received a spit in the face. For their part the "Veterans" were not to blame, And for our country, it was a time of shame. Dessert Storm and Dessert Shield put them in the MidEast Where terror reigns with sate for a feast. Yet, the soldier, sailor, or airman know, If his country calls, he must go. They follow the traditions of other "Veterans" you see, They put their lives on the line for both you and me. To the ones who have worn our country's uniform I say "Thank You, Veteran", we should honor you with more than one day!