My Prayer for Veterans

The Memorial Day Parade

Who are they that file before us
blazoning their colors proudly?
Nostalgic with memories of home
and lands traversing the seas.

Who are they, erect, rigid ahead,
each individual the essence of their Corps?
Gallant, arrogant, humble, marching along,
each step an anthem to which they swore.

Who are they with ribbons tinting
in space traditional at the breast?
This space reserved without debate,
for there alone is formed the heraldic crest.

Who are they, those who pass us by,
their faces at first quite obscure?
Look again. Is it she or him?
surely there is one of familiar contour.

Yes, I ask again. Who are they,
does it surprise you not to know?
Some know, but to those who forget,
listen to the music, perhaps it was long ago.