The Bracelet

We wear the bracelet to pay tribute to a few;

Their return to freedom is way past due.

We can’t begin to imagine the sacrifice they made;

May the memories of these heroes never fade.

From fighter pilots to the grunt on the ground;

Their route to freedom has yet been found.

To the vets and their families, they will always be missed.

We know in their hearts they still exist.

Our fallen heroes remembered in slate;

To honor our missing is not too late.

They have existed for years, many are alone;

Return our comrades to freedom, return them home.

Excuses and promises earmark the time;

Fighting for freedom their only crime.

We wear the bracelet to honor a few;

Their freedom they sacrificed for me and you.

Michael D. Monfrooe

1988

To the many.