The Sniper

Darkness surrounds you like a blanket pulled tight;

You wait for Charlie, he owns the night.

The monsoons fall quickly to muddy the ground;

You listen even harder for that warning sound.

You’re on watch alone; you check your gear;

Your only companion is the constant fear.

You look at your watch, the hands move so low;

Will you survive the night, only God will know?

Your mind wonders of home, family and those so dear;

Thoughts of home somewhat numb the fear.

The silence is broken by a horrid sound;

Back to reality, the enemy’s been found.

You prepare for the worst, you alert the team;

Your heart pound loudly, you want to scream.

No longer a shadow that haunts the night,

He is now the enemy within your sights.

The shot explodes with a thunderous roar;

Silently he falls to stalk no more.

As fate shall have it he will die;

You will forever remember, forever to cry.

Michael D. Monfrooe

November 1986