Bernadette Langer | + Follow Poet |
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Unsung Heroes

How many unknown heroes are sleeping now 
Silently resting in this field once ploughed 
Tiny white markers on each tended grave 
Thankful flowers from those they saved 

In this field lie a million stories
Tales of pain, loss and unknown glory 
Brothers, sons and fathers each dear to someone 
Shrouded now in darkness, taken away by war's gun

Close your eyes and imagine how it was that last day 
As bullets flew and cannons roared, with lives they'd pay
They stayed and did not choose to run 
Those heroes now so very long unsung 

Tales of bravery left unsaid 
Just names on a paper, saying they were dead 
"Killed in Action" 
"Lost at Sea"
Words more than that, would never be

I wander slowly between each silent row
Sensing the pain and deep sorrow 
For one of those unknown heroes was my Grandad
Along with ten of the best friends he ever had

All died together, each trying to save the other one
None of them survived to greet the rising sun 
My Grandmother received a letter, a medal and a flag 
Along with personal effects tucked neatly in his old kit bag

Copies of letters he lovingly wrote
Such sadness brought a lump to your throat 
Tears flowed like rivers that never ran dry 
Pain would always be seen deep within her eye 

I remember that awful day so very well 
That's why his story I am trying to tell
Of his unselfish bravery left unsung 
I have the need to shout out and tell everyone 

I know that many have someone they lost this way 
In a war fought for democracy and freedom to stay
Remember their bravery and their great sacrifice 
To ensure what we have, they paid the ultimate price

Turning to look back at each of the graves 
I whisper my thank you for all that they saved
Sleep silent angels, you passed every test 
You were simply the very, best of the best!

Copyright © Bernadette Langer | Year Posted 2006

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