#acrifice
The following sonnet is based on a true story related to me by a family member who is a special forces Parajumper. I am reprinting it here as a reminder of the sacrifice our men and women in uniform endure to pay for the freedom we enjoy. Please remember our fallen and their families this Memorial Day--and every day. ("Quiet soldiers" is a term some special forces members use to describe themselves.) Inspired by All Poetry's new expansion into Lyrics after hearing one of my poems set to music here, I turned this sonnet with some minor tweaking into a song as well. You can hear it here free of charge: https://suno.com/s/dt6cQremmQSHy13B (music and voice created with SUNO; lyrics are mine).
I hope you like it as much as I do.
Behind enemy lines you gave your life,
The risks you knew and embraced willingly,
Red, black and green berets fought by your side,
And brought your body back to family.
Later in a ritual of their own,
They would name a field airport in your name,
And honor you, your brothers, far from home,
Their memory now your eternal flame.
I do not know your rank, your name, your face,
I only know that I am in your debt,
Who for your family can take your place?
Our debt to them we must never forget.
The freedom I enjoy comes thanks to you,
And all who serve with honor, proud and true.
Apr 2
Apr 2, 2026 at 1:40 AM UTC