They were just young boys
When they were called to fight
Against communism and oppression
They thought it was only right
They answered the call with some
Fear, but also a lot of pride
They felt democracy and freedom
World over, should not be denied
Now mind you, war is an ugly thing
It brings nothing but horror and gruesome scenes
These young boys witnessed many deaths
Of brothers and good friends
As bombs blasted and shots rang out
These boys could only wonder in fear
If they'd ever make it back home
Or if their lives would end "here"
As the war dragged on and time as well
The boys were no longer boys
they learned that to survive they had to shoot and kill
They learned they had no choice
They were men when they finally returned home
Their lives were forever changed
Exposed to the harsher side of life
In their minds, the realities deeply ingrained
During World War I, Korea, World War II and Desert Storm
The men were welcomed home in glory
But the men who served in Vietnam
Well, that was a different story
As these veterans move on with their lives
And the healing of scars and wounds begin
We must remember to thank them all
For all the efforts they've put in
We must never take our lives for granted
Each day we must take a moment to reflect
And remember the lives that were lost
For democracy and freedom to protect
Whenever you meet a veteran
Take the time to shake his hand
And thank him for his service
For his courageous stand
Copyright © June 2001 Edith Bael