musket
predecessor to the rifle
named for mousquette or sparrow hawk
smoothbore long-barreled firearm
cumbersome, heavy to lift
musket
used by infantrymen
during the War Between the States
Sometimes referred to as the Civil War
Or Sherman and Lee's war
musket
heavy to lift,
large-caliber, clumsy,
muzzle loading
shoulder gun
musket
Armed infantrymen cross alien dust
Braving perils posed in on the lands
Courageous hearts, for the sake of freedom
Defend our rights with preen and pain
Enduring duty tours after duty tours
Fight for the nation, never questioning
Grateful we are to all those brave-hearts
Humbly we thank what they deserve
In deference to sere self-sacrifice
Just cause resounds in their battle cries
Kneel we ought to say a prayer for them
Let love be conferred on them who are there
Miles and miles they march thro’ stride and strife
Never mind night or day, risking limb and life
Offer our thanks on this blessed day
Pray and bow down heads to God
Quietly render words of respect and reverence
Reveling in their daring deeds
See how snowflakes sit on the window sill
Twinkling stars dole out good grace
Unequaled peers, each of them
Venting emotions through cheers or tears
Wish we ought to, for these martyrs
Xenocrysts set and carved in stones
Yet their memories will return
Zeal echoes in each and every house.
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August 18, 2014
Form Abecedarian
First Place Win
Contest: Abecedarian by Shadow