The Small, White Box in My Desk



If you pulled out a drawer in my desk, you’d find a small, white box inside

There you’d see a Purple Heart, and a chunk of my heart I will confide.

In my brother’s wallet was a picture of his girlfriend who waited for years

And who would never see him again through all her tears.



On the 12th of April he left us with pride

The very same day, FDR died.

It was a very sad day for my Mother you see,

Because she was pregnant with me.



My “Hero,” Jimmie, died amongst the tanks,

At the time I couldn’t give him my thanks.

For volunteering to save our country and the world.

What memories I have when the flag is unfurled!



He never got a chance to marry and see his kids running around,

He fought for you and for me on Okinawa ground.

Never had a chance to see his small Pennsylvania town,

Celebrate his return—so many with a frown.



He had a proud family, five of six brothers who would serve.

All branches included, got the appreciation they deserve.

Many of them saw where he was buried

And saw his stone to share the grief we all have carried.





























He rests in the Punch Bowl in the Pacific,

All visitors still think he was terrific.

I loved the day when I was there with my wife so dear,

How great it was to hear Taps so loud and so clear.



We felt rain on our faces that very same day,

Looked in the sky, only white puffy clouds today!

Someone turned to us to say it’s not rain

It’s tears from God because of the pain.



To those who have served of your time, maybe your life,

Through the happy times and through the strife.

For those who have given a little and those who have given a lot,

Remind yourself of the freedom you have bought.



So today I celebrate with you my thoughts of a man who would die,

To give up his life, so that we could live free—you and I

And every time I see his own beautiful flag, I’ll think of the debt,

And the small, white box and my hero I’ve never met.





Dave Swarts

May 27, 2019



“Free to Be; You and Me”