THE FINAL TRIBUTE
The soldier's picture was as clear as a lake
His boots longed for that shine that it use to take
His weapon was inverted and sank in the ground
With his dog tags dangling and swinging around
Taps rang out as they passed in review
They touched his helmet and showed they approved
Of his actions that day that saved the lives
Of his comrades and friends and all the guys
They showed their respect and honor that day
With a snappy salute that resembled a wave
It was a final roll call of those who gave their lives
That THE FINAL TRIBUTE was to memorialize.
©Copyright February 27, 2007 by Stephen R. Henninger
Author’s Note: This poem was inspired by an article in the newspaper about soldiers saying troops want to finish the job they started after they attended a memorial for a fallen soldier.
Stephen Henninger: February 27, 2007