War Chest

He looked a little different

And he stood out from the rest

'Cause I couldn't help but notice

The Marine Corps' tattoo on his chest

An Eagle, Globe and Anchor

Etched forever on his chest

A middle aged gentleman

Who once served with the best

The tattoo called to me

I walked over and said hello

I see you were once a Marine

Was it very long ago?

Once Marine, Always Marine

He said with a grin

'Cause once you've earned the title

You're a Marine until the end

So as long as this tattoo

Remains upon my chest

I'll be a Marine forever

Until they lay me down to rest

This chest has hit the ground

In an effort to survive

As bullets and mortar rounds

Fell closely by  my side

This chest has supported the weapon

That resulted in an enemy kill

And has supported my buddy's head

As he lay dieing and still

This chest has been covered

By our Marine Corps' Dress Blues

As on this chest decorations were pinned

Attesting to duty proud and true

So you see, this chest tells the story

Of a Marine who has done his best

An Eagle, Globe and Anchor tattoo

Upon an old Marine "War Chest"

Written by Loyde P. " Snake " Arender