We train hard for this moment
Endure our hellish weeks
Repetition becomes our friend
Strangers now our…lifeline
They are our family now
Brother and sister from another
Together we continue to train for…
This moment
Pack our bags with essentials
Before we depart...
We reassure our loving families
Don our helmet, vest, holster and sling
We travel, we wait, and we endure
Endure our hellish months
Hustle, move, quick turn
Backs ache…legs and arms burn
Suck it up and control the pain
Gone are cologne and perfume
The only scent in the air is…
Sweat
And
Gun Oil…
It's damn hot…so f'n hot
You think you know hot…
Opening the oven doesn't compare
Seared lungs…tearing eyes
Stinging sand…raging wind
And we continue to train for…
This moment
Hellish months turn to year
Canteen water tastes old…
But at least it's wet
Hope the chow is good…
Thank you GOD for the MRE
Dig a hole to sleep
Just not too deep
Gone is music…faded long ago
The only sound in the air is
Gunfire
And
Screams…
Gone is dance…can't remember steps
Writhing bodies in pain
Lost are…
Innocence
Minds
Limbs
Wrap
And
Press
Blood
Sweat
And
Tears
Mingle
Curse and Yell
F'n gun
Yell and Curse
Them
And
No one
Reload
And later clean
Clutch tight to
Faith
Hope
We continue to endure
Bonds are formed
New family throws a lifeline
Try to find laughter
But smiles can't reach eyes
Harsh memories are held there
Return home
What was once funny
Isn't really, not anymore
Like an inside joke
Guess you had to be there...
Debrief and brief
Fill out tons of forms
Lack of
Sleep
And
Frustration
Push the limits
Suck it up and carry on...
Tests and observation
Reconstitute and recover
Maybe take some leave
Returned empty…
Back to loved ones
Who thought they understood...
Including those who had already served
Can only offer hugs and cheers
Much later…kisses and tears
No guarantees that this will work
Pain and more still lingers there...
Only one thing is for sure
There is a do over
In the not so distant future
We train hard for that moment
And endure...
Brother and Sister In Arms
~M~
