The Veteran
by Steven Bates
11 November 2024
Starting each day with a bugle call
Or with metal containers crashing down the hall
Whatever the form of reveille
We all were taught bonds of camaraderie
It forged some friendships to last my life
As strong a bond as man and wife
Though without connections for years on end
I still call them Brothers, still call them Friend
We still share a bond that was crafted in fire
From shoulder to shoulder going over the wire
From flightlines in a friendly land
To foxholes in the desert sand
Learning to march with right foot first
Rationing water to quench our thirst
Learning to plan for any contingencies
To bandaging buddies for battlefield injuries
We veterans learned a life unique
With needs both met in mind, physique
All to keep our country safe, secure
We suffered much, but we did endure
So on this special day that's set aside
We honor our Veterans, show them our pride
Male and female from every service
We honor their sacrifice, honor their purpose
Our country, our lifestyle, our American way
Our freedom to vote, our freedom to pray
We honor our Veterans, you signed the blank check
So thank you all Veterans, you have my respect.
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