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Brought a lump to my throat...

untallguy

War hero
Kit Reviewer
Book Reviewer
... and seems apt:

A Soldier’s Christmas - It's Christmas Day, All Is Secure.

T'was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one-bedroom house, made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney, with presents to give,
And to see just who, in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the mantle, just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung pictures, of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a Soldier, once I could see clearly.
The Soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor, in this one-bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in disorder,
Not how I pictured, a lone British Soldier.
Was this the hero, of whom I'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?
I realised the families, that I saw this night,
Owed their lives to these Soldiers, who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world, the children would play,
And grownups would celebrate, a bright Christmas Day.
They all enjoyed freedom, each month of the year,
Because of the Soldiers, like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder, how many alone,
On a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
The very thought brought, a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees, and started to cry.
The Soldier awakened, and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice.
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more,
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."
The Soldier rolled over, and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still,
And we both sat and shivered, from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave, on that cold, dark night,
This guardian of honour, so willing to fight.
Then the Soldier rolled over, with a voice, soft and pure,
Whispered, "Carry on, Santa. It's Christmas Day, all is secure."
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right,
"Merry Christmas, my friend, and to all a good night."

Anon


Not my work at all but was passed to me by a chum.
 
Sad poem! Sadly seem quite a few ex servicemen passing through the hospital recently, sad that these proud people who have done so much are left all alone!
 
To those who have served and are now alone. Raise a glass at stroke of midnight on New Year and I'll join you in doing the same. Cheers! And a Happy New Year Friend.
 
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