Boots touch the soil he has longed for
Covering the dust of the war left behind
Dust mingled with sweat, blood, and tears
Of brothers, of “family” still holding the line
His body has yearned for this moment
For the touch of his family back home
As he sat surrounded by sounds of war
Fighting for a country…not of his own
He has fought for ideals he believes in
Freedom paid for by the red, white, and blue
The ultimate sacrifice by daughters and sons
The soldier’s calling; what he’s chosen to do
He goes forth; marching into an uncertain future
Knowing each day may mark his life’s end
He says a prayer as he closes his eyes
His soul weeps for lost brothers and friends
This soldier’s body has survived the onslaught
Of weapons; of the physical harm of war
But his mind will be scarred by emotion within
His life altered; his mind innocent no more
Courage supersedes; what was innocence
Allowing his existence as he fought to survive
Courage fueled by prayers carried to God
Home safely; our brave soldier arrives
Welcome home… defender of the innocent
You fight for freedom; at the loss of your own
Forever in your debt; each American remains
As hearts rejoice; our soldier’s safely home!
Written by TaVona Salaz Treadwell