I Am A Veteran

The old man's hands, withered and gnarled,
Reached out to shake the woman's hand.
"Your words meant a lot to me. You see,
I am a veteran. I served my land.

I fear it's forgotten why we fought,
That folks don't remember why blood was shed.
It was long ago and, oh, so vague,
My companions in arms died or bled.

They paid the ultimate sacrifice
With life, limb, mind, or sight.
I'm glad to know their memory's honored.
I want to believe we'll keep up the fight..

Freedom is never won once and for all.
But always requires us to be true and brave.
Don't let us have fought in vain,
But take up our flag and let it wave.

I am a veteran. I defended my land.
Thank God, you remember and understand."