To The Defenders Of Our Land Poem by Della Hodgson James

I've read some of your letters
  I really enjoyed them, too.
I suppose it's hard to adapt one's self
  To a world that's virtually new.
Our world at home is a small place
  But there's a wonderous working wire,
To help broaden out their views
  The boys are sent afar.

They are seeing things we will never see
  It helps them to understand,
To view the expanse of America
  And that of foreign lands.

We are proud of every boy and girl
  That wears the colors, too,
We know they fully understand, and
  Their hearts are brave and true.

If those sweethearts you left behind
  Are loyal, staunch, and true,
They'll be waiting when you return again
  They'll be waiting there for you.

They'll keep the home fires burning
  They'll wait, tho the waiting in sorrow,
They'll be waiting for, 'The dawn of peace'
  And a hope of a bright tomorrow.

They'll keep the trust, the watch word
  They are sentinels, tho alone,
No heart, less loyal's worthy
  To welcome heroes homes.

No matter where you travel
  On land, on sea, or sky,
Their prayers will follow after
  With every breath or sigh.

An earnest hope that God protects
  In every danger zone,
A secret wish you'll not be changed
  When again you return home.

With all the wonders you have known
  Miracles, of science's creation.
And wisdom, from experience, (contact)
  From this and other nations.

Your sweethearts may stand in awe
  You'll have no need to fear them,
They may be inclined to worship you
  As gods, instead of men.

But whether it be a sweetheart,
  Or a wife that waits alone
Of this you may be certain,
  You'll receive a welcome home.