I witnessed first hand…
The look he had in his failing eyes as life slipped away without a sound
Acknowledging that death had not only knocked twice but also rang the bell
My ears concentrating on the sounds of war not death
The gushing hollow wound in his chest stealing his last deep breaths
His body paralyzed and having been brought to rest
By a loud voiced bullet’s violent resolve
Afraid and silently praying for God to spare him
His cold hands grabbing for earth as his spirit warmed and readied for flight
Just another soul passing into the light
As the large guns fire again and again
Awaiting further command…

War may be hell, but heaven is crowded with soldiers just like him…

2007 © T Sheridan

Ted Sheridan

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/in-the-name-of-god-and-country/