They Died So Young

Old men steer world affairs and tend to dream and scheme, While young men carry out their follies, forfeiting life supreme. Brave Americans have died on The Altar of Honor worldwide. They died so very young, all too young they died. Courageous men stormed the beaches of Pacific strands. Heroes all, some spilled precious blood staining pristine sands. "Semper Fi! For Freedom's Sake! Press On!" they cried! They died so very young, alas, all too young they died. Valiant men stormed Normandy's shore at horrifying expense, To set peoples free from tyranny, they took a noble stance. For the cause of liberty they would not be denied! They died so very young, alas, all too young they died. Bold men struggled for Heartbreak Ridge, its summit to attain. On that barren waste, Korean soil was imbued with crimson stain. They rest 'neath sacred ground, never to hear their praises sung. So very young they died, alas, they died all too young. In the jungles of Viet Nam and yet today in desert zone, Stalwart patriots died placing national interests above their own. In every conflict, soldiers served with gallantry and pride. But too many died so very young, alas, all too young they died. Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired (© All Rights Reserved)