Charles E. Preston

WAKING UP DEAD

Eyes never again to open
this day with endless time
not knowing at this moment
all that was left behind

Columns of troops, grace the sky’s
wearing colors, so clean and bright
in perfect steps of rhythm
a proud and beautiful sight

Many different soldiers
from many walks of life;
their tour of duty just beginning
this time an everlasting fight

They now serve the Master
invisible wings upon their backs
protecting those below them
from everyday attacks

They’re proud Memorial Day Veterans
a thousand million strong
standing tall and together
knowing rights from wrongs

Their task many times rewarded.
Their names etched in stone.
Now on full time duty
watching over those at home

Each day their ranks grow stronger
as many leave their beds
it’s called a new beginning
It’s called… Waking up Dead