I stand here in defense
Of the country that I serve
Not for reward or praise
Only the respect do I deserve
I go where I am sent
In many battles I have fought
Returning home bruised and battered
True heroes to graves I have brought
I have seen the carnage
From needless wars around the world
How recklessly into combat
Many countries have been hurled
I have heard the cry of pain
From a soldier fighting for life
I have seen tears shed in sorrow
From a family, loved one and wife
I hold my self steadfast
Never giving in to fear I carry inside
Never will I cower in darkness
Only in defense will I hide
I have seen bodies litter the ground
While across a battlefield heroes lay
I have heard the protesters claiming
We are killers when innocence we slay
I have stood through the years
Answering the call when it came
For the toil and strife I fight through
Never do I point out the blame
I am a soldier for one reason
Now let me make that perfectly clear
It is for our rights and freedoms we have
And the liberties we all share
The sound of gunfire fills the once silent air
I must end this now my comrades need me
Remember us that are out here now
As we fight to keep you all safe and free
© Tall Mountain Dreamer August 6, 2008
