FORT BENNING, GEORGIA

(A Sad Vacation Side Trip)

I didn't see the stone,

we searched many rows.

I called out "Hey Pappy"

no answer from below.

The tears started,

when I called out to him.

My heart was saddened,

Daddy, where you been.

My wife called out,

"I have found the stone."

I hurried to her side,

then she left me alone.

Just me and Daddy,

in that great big field;

Just me and daddy,

God, I wish you had lived.

Flooding memories

as well as tears:

my first return visit

after 31 years.

Empty flower vase,

no one seems to care.

I wasn't the best of sons,

the burdens you had to bear.

More memories of your smile,

the good times we had.

You deserved better,

than the life you had.

A grizzled war veteran,

tough as nails,

you never spoke,

of all your hells.

You shook my hand,

with tears in your eyes.

When I left for NAM,

I remember that good bye.

You never told me you loved me,

nor held me close.

It wasn't your way,

but of me, you did boast.

I never told you I loved you,

till after it was too late.

I never held you,

I never gave you a break.

We two were in that field,

alone in that field of stone.

Sergeants and Majors quietly listened,

As I told you of home.

I told you of my life,

I cried like a babe.

I cry now,

as I type this about your grave.

Lonely you were,

as many vets are.

When I stood in your shoes,

it was too late by far.

I looked up from the stone,

so many other stones –

all war veterans:

I know you belong.

I miss you dad.

©Copyright July 3, 2007 by Fred Alvis