MEMORIAL TO A FRIEND

My dear friend - today is the day for
remembering those that gave their all.

I have forgotten even more of your
language so I pray you can still
understand me.

My memories of you and what you
did for me are becoming faded but
sometimes in my sleep they are
very vivid.

I visited your grave to speak to you
and checked on your family
numerous times. I brought them
what I could.

I'm sorry to say I didn't maintain
contact with them after I left
Viet Nam.

You gave your all for me and I did
so little for you.

Forgive me my friend.

You were a wonderful friend and I
still cherish that – you showed me
the way of the rainforest and
taught me how to stay alive in that
beautiful but horrible place.

I owe you my life my friend but I
still wish the bullet had hit its
intended target... me... and not you.

One day I will be with you again
and will find the peace you that you have.

Goodbye for now my friend.
The memories fade
but I will never forget you.

©Copyright May 27, 2005 by Charles Schwiderski