Charles E. Preston

UNJUST REWARD

Staggering into an emergency room
his Jacket frayed and torn
a tired old vet asks for help
but receiving only scorns

“I’m sorry sir you’ll have to wait
please fill out all these forms”

A bleeding gash above his brow
as tears ran down his face
an injury occurred just moments ago
for being in the wrong place

“I’m sorry sir, you’ll have to wait
your forms are incomplete”

Seemed like hours were passing by
still standing on his feet
his face was losing color
and was growing very weak

“I’m sorry sir you’ll have to wait
please try and find a seat”

He came to rest upon the floor
curled up like a ball
minute hands were racing
his name still hadn’t been called

“I’m sorry sir you’ll have to move
please try and find a seat”

Not responding to her yell
a man beside him said,
“Because of your neglect and rudeness
this man laying here is dead.”

“The old patches on his jacket
make him out to be
a hero who fought for freedom;
he gave to make us free.”