An Old Soldier Poem by Loyd C Taylor Sr
An Old Soldier
A Tribute to all veterans, and all of our brave soldiers, God bless you!
******
Friend, I have faced many a difficult battle,
Dangerous missions requiring real backbone.
As a soldier, I have encountered hard times,
But this trip was the toughest one I had known.
My feet became heavy, but still I advanced...
Moving down the long hallway to where he lay;
This man was my best friend and fellow soldier,
But I had received news he would die today.
His room was now only a few feet from me;
I became frozen, standing there at his door.
I had come to say good-bye to my comrade,
For after today, I would see him no more.
He was sitting up, as if waiting for me;
I noticed an old familiar smile on his face.
He said, 'Soldier, I'm sure glad you came today,
For soon, ole buddy, I'll be leaving this place.
I guess you know I don't like these hospitals:
There's just too much sufferin' n' pain.
'Sides, these places stir up too many memories,
Some I've been reliving again and again.
But, Soldier, I've got a brand new assignment;
I'm goin' t' a land where there ain't no wars,
A place where the winds of peace are a'blowin'...
It's a long mission, away up b'yond the stars.
Yes, sir, I'm ready, be gone in a short while,
But there's a thing or two I'd like you to know.
You, partner, are this old soldier's best friend.
Sure gon'na miss our talks, and I've loved you so.'
As he spoke, a glow came upon his old face,
Like none that I had ever seen there before.
He said, 'Listen up, Soldier, I'm being called;
There's a messenger a'standin' at my door! '
I took his hand as he squeezed mine so tightly,
I swear, I have never seen him so at ease.
Then, his head turning, I saw him smile widely.
'The Commander's callin'... I feel heaven's breeze! '
Then just like that, that brave old soldier was gone;
I could feel his firm grip on my hand release.
I stood at full attention to salute him,
And said, 'So long, Dad... now go on... rest in peace.'
© Loyd C. Taylor, Sr.
I do hope you enjoy it,
Loyd, the simple poet.
Wow totally intense imagery and expression! ! Outstanding poem - 10 -10s for this one. A truly fantastic tribute to vets everywhere, brought tears to my eyes. My Dad was a vet, is image came to my mind at the last verse. Thank you for a truly great poetical masterpiece.
A very fluent and polished poem, an excellent execution and presentation and conveys the camaraderie between soldiers every well.
It's a lovely poem in giving tribute to the old and veteran soldiers. I thank you profusely to remember them
What a beautiful and spirit filled poem this is. I can so clearly imagine the scene in the hospital. The ending is so poignant and made me shed tears. Blessings to you and for honoring the soldiers and particularly your dear departed father.
Loyd, You are a huge inspiration to teaming generation of young versatile poets like me....and with another brilliant poem like this, your place among the best here remain unshaken... Thanks for sharing this poem. R.I.P to your friend
It's a beautiful poem. You seems to have first hand knowledge of the war theatre. Men become soldier not because he wants to die for his country, but the events may make him get hurt and even die, some only fall into this state. And those of us left behind may have sad tales to tell.Some are lucky like me. You may call it luck or fate. But life is a wonderful play. After all life is an game in unpredictable. Game. Truly very good write. Thank you for sharing.
when a soldiers life is through, he will sit waiting for you, he waits to say good-bye because he'll see you on the other side.
Hello, Loyd! I much like your poem, so sincere, moving and solemn. Wish that place without wars to be on the earth.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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10/2/2024 4:14:25 PM # 1.0.0.1119
Great piece of work. Thanks for sharing this poem with us; and, great thanks to the men of valour. Even though, it is not easy with the muse of war. E.K.L.