1975 30Th April
the end of the Vietnam War

The flight back from Vietnam was crowded and long.
The offensive has failed the war was over for some.
It took four days to get to the small hospital
In the old New England town.
The endless war far behind him.
He was at last a minute away
from his beloved Catherine.
He met the Nurse in the hallway.
How is she he asked?
Her seasoned eyes looked at the floor
she shook her head.
And the baby he whispered?
Again her head shook.
The words just too sad to speak.
Catherine was pale and weak.
Upon seeing him she managed
a smile upon his arrival.
Her beautiful smile
That had stolen his heart
So long ago now..

Oh darling, I am going to die.
Don’t let me die.
Hold me in your arms!
Hold me tight.
Don’t let me go.
When you hold me
we cannot be parted
If you stay with me
I shall not be afraid.
As she left him
The bells tolled from the
old white clapboard tower
of the church.
To celebrate the end of the war
for some.
He carried her lifeless body
to the window.
It was a beautiful spring day.
Overlooking the square
The townsfolk had gathered
And we’re singing Amazing grace.
Someone released two white doves
The glided past the window
As if to take her soul to heaven.
He kissed her still lips
For one last time.
And whispered to her.
Peace at last my love.