Inspired and embolden by Larry Donaldson’s recent heartfelt poem, I penned one myself – based on his intent, meaning and sincere thoughts.
My last flight (just before Halloween, I think) in 1968, I flew Peter Pilot in an H model on an emergency extraction of a LRRP team trapped and under heavy small arms fire located in a large bomb crater surrounded by 300′ jungle on three sides on the side of a mountain. I’ll reserve the still vivid details of that successful mission/adventure for another time. That flight is part of my inspiration – along with Crazy Larry’s fine poem. Here is my poem:
You may not like us or the things we ‘oft say
But we would give up life on any fateful day.
Most of us walk in murky shadows of mind,
We are serving still, young, in a land far behind.
We saw friends die a horrible death suffered and killed in that war.
Together we mourn their loss for that and what for?
Delay was left when we had a downed bird or L.R.R.P’s for extraction
All of us willing to save by bold and fast action.
As we flew at full throttle, not knowing what to expect,
Snatching our comrades from the cold grip of Death.
We were cautious, yet determined and above all – just brave
Knowing full well the lives we would save.
.
We soldiered each day…our lives, our duty to call.
Over canopy verdant green, some more yet to fall.
We passed the exam, we passed Life’s test.
We were and remain Troopers! The best of the best!
In minds and eyes Winning Warriors we are,
Boys, soldiers, men who carry the weight and the scar
Of battle and honor and all of their harms
Brothers forever – Brothers in Arms.