By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2020

First published in Academy of the Heart and Mind (February 20, 2023)

On Veteran’s Day
as wreath was laid
I pondered deep
the price he paid;

As somber rain
fell from the sky
tears of gratitude
flowed in silent cry;

As drum roll ceased
and Taps was played
hand over heart
head bowed I prayed:

That God would bless
each soldier’s life
on earth or heaven,
husband or wife,
for the sacrifice
that each has made
for liberty,
may it never fade.