V is for Veteran

They joined to serve and so much more

Giving back to those who stood before

To better their lives and standing proud

Honor and duty, shouting out loud

They did what was told, no matter the cost

With all the stress, they never got lost

Following orders, always a team

Rising to the top, just like cream

Brothers and sisters, forever linked

In harms way, they never blinked

Marching in step, head held high

Squads and troops all unify

So on this day give them your thanks

Who put on the uni and worked in the ranks

And surrendered their years for the family they love

For you and me and God above

Right Reasons

They charged ahead although they were scared

There is nothing I know that can be compared

Their brothers and sisters felt the heat of the fight

The battles that continued long into the night



We honor this day without feeling the why

With grilling and sports to celebrate the high

While Gold Star families mourn the brave

And stand at attention for Old Glory's wave



So remember this day for all the right reasons

And not a holiday to celebrate the seasons

Or a chance for us to sleep til noon

But to honor those who left us too soon

Unseen

Deep in the park, under the trees

Hiding from view, they crouch on their knees

Dirty and worn, so skinny and sick

Hair matted and greasy, so tangled and thick

All drive by, avoiding their gaze

Occasionally donating on special days

Thousands of stories brought them to this place

But no one listens and stares off to space

Veterans and addicts and those down on their luck

No longer trying because their life is stuck

Reliving the days that dragged them here

Fighting for scraps in spite of the fear

Unseen they are by the fortunate ones

Who whine and complain and bang on their drums

Who think they have it so hard and so bad

But nothing compared to the permanently sad

So the next time you drive or walk by the crowd

Watching them tired with heads lowely bowed

Remember that once they were just like you

That they deserve respect and sympathy too