The-Soldier-Beneath
Shiny boots and brass our eyes only see
Their uniforms worn so crisp and neat
Ranks on shoulders and medals on chest
They dress to the hilt in their very best
Their walk is tall and their heads held high
Courage and commitment found deep in their eyes
Enter a room or point them out in a crowd
Their voices quiet but their presence is loud
The soldier before us is flawless and perfect
Their scars and wounds they hide below surface
Each one with a story from a war once fought
Some greater than others but none worth naught
Their boots tattered and torn with no brass to be found
Their uniforms soiled with dirt from the ground
They fight as teams no matter their rank
They’re buried in fox holes and maneuvering tanks
Their courage at times not as stout but not weak
They have fear in their hearts but no time to think
They sit down to eat but at times not well
Though some not at all when they’re centered in hell
They’ve quieted their presence but don’t hold back tears
For the loss of a friend they relied on for years
Their pain is great and the hurt goes deep
But they feel compassion for the dead at their feet
Their confidence pressed when they hear the news
Of violent protests from the ignorant few
Rioters boast and they carry their signs
Shouting about war that has shook our time
When these are called out and it’s time to go
They burn their draft cards and make a show
But our soldiers are proud and they protect this land
Regardless of those who refuse to stand
Their wounds and their scars are attached to their hearts
They fight for our freedom and they do their part
Though our eyes only see the uniforms they keep
It’s what’s underneath that makes us free
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