Poetry by Richard Perry: Honor and Sacrifice

Honor And Sacrifice

On a warm July day many years ago

What lay ahead I really didn’t know

The twelve of us were asked to stand

An officer said “Please raise your right hand”

We’d all passed the tests they gave us that day

So, we took the oath and were on our way

We all knew that freedom came with a price

That could mean the ultimate sacrifice

Some classmates and friends had already gone

To a faraway land where war raged on

It was nothing new, having gone on before

Since our nation’s birth there’s been war after war

Our young men and women answered the call

Knowing sadly, full well, that some would fall

Fighting for freedom while guarding our shores

In hopes that this time we could end all wars

So, now every day when I take time to pray

I ask God that someday there’ll come that day

So, on Veteran’s Day we honor all who stood tall

And, without hesitation answered the call

Willing to serve their country and give

Years of their lives for this freedom we live

Serving at home or a far distant land

Guarding the torch in Lady Liberty’s hand


Pictured: Richard Perry at Half & Half Restaurant in Reading. Photo by Taylor Gregory.

Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own poetry, short fiction, essays, or personal reflections for publication on The Reading Observer by emailing TGregory@TheReadingObserver.com. We look forward to reading your work!

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