Who Won?

Where once the Seventh Cavalry heroically stood its ground, Winter winds now moan o'er the desolate Montana battleground. Drifting snows blanket the horse soldiers' lonely graves. They were out-fought by Crazy Horse and his determined braves! After decades of broken treaties, recrimination and hate, The Red Man's frustrations were culminated on that fateful date. Many moons have passed since they clashed in mortal strife, That forever changed the Native American way of life. A marble stone marks where each trooper that day was slain. A stark, lonely memorial on that ghostly, windswept plain. They now sleep together 'neath a monument grand and tall, Awaiting the rallying 'CHARGE!" of Gabriel's bugle call! Perhaps if their pompous commander had been less rash, Gallant cavalrymen might have survived that bitter clash. But such was his zeal for national glory and fame, That he heaped upon himself everlasting shame! Tho' the Bighorn Battle brought a modicum of peace, Alas, the harassment of the Red Man did not cease. They scattered, their plight not worth pursuing anymore. The Red Man won the battle, but alas, he lost the war. Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired (© All Rights Reserved)