Word Means Something

Forget the fame and glory

Forget all while you read this story.

We cannot be perfect all of the time

Especially while for the top we climb.

While an officer in combat many years ago

I oft wondered how I was thought of by GI Joe.

In my mind’s eye I could see wonder and doubt

When giving orders that involved lives; that's what it was about.

My wish to be good enough was within my very soul

Only hoping that they understood the combat officer's role.

Never once did I direct without thought

But some died and we knew not for what we fought.

On the other side of the coin

I wonder if they felt I wished that they had never joined?

Funny how one’s mind does wonder

When life and death can come with just one blunder.

Fame? Never entered my mind,

Just getting as many home as possible and saving their behind.

After many months of being in the field

My tour was ending and going home didn’t feel real.

A PFC and Staff Sergeant came to me

Expressing their thanks, and in this story, it is the key.

Not that I did such a great job

Seems they just appreciated the fact I was just like them: another poor slob.

Fame? Naw, not for me

I was nothing for the world to see

Fame, yes, as you may define

Comes to me because of my men, and their words to me are so sublime.