Veterans join an elite fighting force,
Laying their lives on the line,
Defending each American without remorse,
Marching into a hell all others decline.

Intentionally taking on bad memories
To defend our freedoms and rights,
Without notice called from the armories
In all conditions, plights and nights.

Counting down the days on a calendar
While praying to receive a loved one’s letter,
Viewing a loved one’s picture as a reminder
Of the warm loving arms at home they remember.

Witnessing the loss of a comrade, they move on,
Back into the shadow of death, praying to survive,
Gathering every fiber of strength to draw upon,
Anticipating another fight in hopes to remain alive.

The day finally arrives to return back home,
Eyes glazed over though stilled with a known stare
And thoughts of recollections just beginning to roam
Into a new unfamiliar fight of PTSD repair.

Transitioning from familiar commands and actions
Lies a challenge of adaptation with painful sights,
Making ready with head held high to endure reactions,
As a warrior to remain determined to win the fights.