Janet Rattay

TO BE CONTINUED…

I’m 17; I’m just a kid,
finished with high school, and so it’s been said.
I can be anything I want to be,
My future’s right here in front of me.
I’m 17, I’m just a kid.

I’m 18, and I’m going away,
I won’t be long, I won’t have to stay.
I’ll get that job; I’ll buy that car,
Uncle Sam is going to make me a star.
I’m 18, and I’m going away.

I’m 19, and growing up fast,
I think of you, I think of the past.
Please mom and dad don’t cry for me,
I’ll be coming home soon, you’ll see.
I’m 19, and growing up fast.

I’m 21, and I’m still here,
Hey my friend, toast me with a beer.
I’m scared, I’m tired, nothing left to give,
Please god help me, I want to live.
I’m 21, and I’m still here.

I’m 30 now, did you forget about me?
I think of you, do you remember me?
You’re the Home of the Brave and the Land of the Free.
At least I thought that was what – America meant to me.
I’m 30 now, did you forget about me?

I’m 40 now, and it’s taken its toll,
I’m middle-aged with no dreams of old.
The days have no beginning; the days have no end,
There are bridges to burn and hearts to mend.
I’m 40 now, and it’s taken its toll.

I’m 55, and I’m still alive,
I think of you, do you remember me?
You’re the Home of the Brave and the Land of the Free.

To be continued….until every American is accounted for.

Author’s Note: POW/MIA Vigil, Point State Park, Pittsburgh ~ September 21, 2002