Peace At A Price

You are veterans so brave and true,
You fought hell all the way through
In smoke-filled skies up above.
You defended peace with unyielding love.

Putting your life on the line,
No matter the post you were assigned.
The battle caused you terrible strain,
Yet, you fought on through all of the pain.

Answering our Nation's rally call,
You showed up and gave it your all.
For our country's secure rampart,
Thank you veterans from my heart.

(12 Lines)
Freeverse-aabb
Written for "HONORING OUR VETERANS "  [ASR]