A Soldier’s Life

As a child, a soldier was all I wanted to be,

To fight for my country, the land of the free.

I listened to Grandpa and the stories he told,

Of fierce battles and men so bold.

I took my oath, I was honor bound,

To the sound of a bugle, a new home I found.

Boys from all over training side by side,

I graduated basic, my heart filled with pride.

I was an American soldier sent off to war,

The tragedies and horrors I hope to see no more.

Boys became men, they grew up fast,

Our war is over but it won’t be the last.

I retired this year, 20 years was not that long,

I still shed a tear when I hear a patriotic song.

I now tell the stories of men so brave,

As long as we serve, our flag will wave.

Michael D. Monfrooe

November 1989