Long Warcare Poems

Forgotten Heroes

Since the genesis of this nation young patriots have borne the brunt of war.
To ensure the preservation of our freedoms, they've heard the cannons' roar!
Politicians send them to battle claiming 'tis in the best interests of the nation,
But, when the conflicts cease, the way some are treated is an abomination!

Many vets fight other battles when they return to the shores of this nation.
They are spat upon, called 'baby killers' and suffer many another humiliation!
Many agonized from the effects of 'agent orange' and fought to set that aright.
A reluctant bureaucracy agreed there was a problem and finally eased their plight!

Alas, too many forgotten heroes are homeless and dwell wherever they can,
Yet the government seems to provide ample succor for the illegal alien!
The powers that be finally realized there is a problem with post battle stress.
After years of debate they avowed, "Maybe it's a matter that we should address!"

Others have been carried from the battlefield wounded in body and soul.
So very much we owe these brave men and women who've played their role!
Are we minding Lincoln's pledge to those who've borne the din of strife,
To care for him, his affairs, his orphan and his bereaving wife?

I have a message for all politicians that is very loud and clear!
Why is our blood and treasure always at the tip of the spear!
If you don't want to care for our vets, then don't make any more!
Stop policing the world and keep our youngsters out of war!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
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