I would be neglectful after finding this poem
to not pass it on to my blog and its' readers.
It was attributed to Major Michael Davis
O'Donnell.A Medal of Honor Recipient in the
Vietnam War.
It is a very moving statement and though
I know this poem is well circulated,
my feelings are such that this kind of
expression cannot be reissued too often.
Thank You For Your Service on this Memorial
Day and every day in perpetuity.
If you are able,save them a place
inside of you and save
one backward glance when
you are leaving for
the places they can no longer go.
Be not ashamed to say
you loved them,
though you may,
or may not have, always.
Take what they have left
and what they have taught you
with their dying
and keep it with your own.
And in that time,
when men decide and feel safe
to call the war insane,
take one moment,
to embrace those gentle heroes
you left behind.
Major Michael Davis O'Donnell
January 1, 1970
Dak To, Vietnam
4 comments:
Sol, your personal writings recreate the moments and experiences that occurred during WWII Without these reflections, through your eyes, our link to what you endured would be but a shadow of the past.Whether Korea, Vietnam or current wartime, where our military is engaged, tragedies occur before PEACE,if ever is achieved! This poem tugs at our emotions to care and appreciate the sacrifices given. I
What a beautiful poem. Thank you for sharing it
When a poet writes that "war is insane" , especially, by a Medal of Honor Recipient, it catches my desire, to share it......He certainly knows what his subject is about.
Thank you for your Comments..They please me and will give me the incentive to sit down and write my next post.
Soomon
A very moving and thought provoking poem.
thanks for posting it...
And after all, war is insane. Sometimes needed, but still insane...
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