Souvenirs of War

The dead, the dying1

On fields of blood they're lying2

In some land, far from home3

Thirsty, wounded and alone.4

Murder and death they have seen5

Some the shells of who they had been.6

7

They joined up with smiling faces8

Men of all age, all looks, all races.9

Glory and honor called their name.10

War changed them; never the same.11

12

Gunshots sounding in their heads13

Behind their eyelids seas of red.14

Voices calling in the night15

Friends gone, hidden from sight.16

Night terrors robbing men of sleep17

These are the souvenirs of war they keep.18

19

Not medals or trophies or shiny placques20

Instead the loss of life21

Loved ones not brought back.22

23

And now again, the hand of war24

Reaching, grasping for some more.25

Young men and women standing proud26

Cheers and shouts echoing loud.27

Drowing out the lamenting cries. 28

The tears running from the eyes 29

Of those who died to bring the peace30

To stop the fighting, to hatred cease.31

Not to "pass the torch."