BRAVE VOLUNTEERS


Scared, cold, in pain
The dust hasn't settled yet
Pinned in, crying
My clothes are ripped, red and wet
Lights, noise, and confusion
All part of the night
I'm going to die alone
Give up the light


Red lights are flashing
Mixing with blue
A face appears at my windown
The face is you
"You're going to be all right"
Is the first thing you say
A reassuring voice
Someone wants me to stay


You could have been home with family
They need you too
You worked all day at the job
Your sleeping hours numbered two
But you went down the hall
Hoping your family is okay
Now you're here with me and Death
With comforting words to say


No time for yourself
No thought for your safety
Later you may think
Your decision was hasty
Get the Jaws, Watch the gas;
Keep the people away
Get his vitals, hose this down
Some things I hear them say


You stand in gas, look in my window
Show no fear
I look back at you knowing
Your voice is the last I'll ever hear
I fade away as you hold me
While holding back your tears
Thank you for being there
You Brave Volunteers




--Ralph Allen 1