G. I. Can Opener Poem by Darwin Henry Beuning
G. I. Can Opener
One thing from my
Army basic training stands out,
My trusted P-38.
Our training was rough,
In the hot July sun.
Our breakfast and evening meals,
Held in the dining hall.
But, during the day -
Out in the heat,
The dust and sometimes the mud.
We ate the noon meal outside.
C-Rations were handed out.
The main canned food item
Had previously been removed.
They were placed in boiling water,
And handed out by the cook.
We would stand in line,
Waiting our turn.
You never knew what you would get.
No choice, luck of the draw.
Then, the trading would begin,
Hot food item for the cigarettes.
Round chocolate bar for the cigarettes.
This would go on for a few minutes.
Then, settling in,
Opening your cans with your,
Trusted P-38
Gulping down your meal,
Because, when the sergeant says,
Move out, you move out.
My trusted P-38,
I carry it with me,
Even to this day.
Perhaps for a showcase? I bet i had a P-38 once, either from an Army surplus store or? ? ? ? It was years ago and i haven't seen it in years. : ( : ( Now I sometimes use a Swiss
The past memories of Army basic training have been so astutely and touchingly delineated. Specially the inscription on Round chocolate bar for the cigarettes and Trusted P-38 is much impressive. Your Poet's note says something more about your poem. Thanks for sharing this poem with us.Full vote.
Kumarmani, Thank you for the kind comments. I enlisted in the Army, one day before my 18th birthday.. My father meet with the Army recruiter and had to sign and give his permission to join. My father was more than happy to do that. He had served in the army and fought against the Japanses. He was awarded the Purple Heart...
A vivid portrayal of the life of military men in the army basic training. Very informative. It expresses in great detail wonderful memories. A noble endeavor indeed to serve one' s country. Beautifully written.
Rose Marie, Thank you for the kind comment. It is an honor to have served one's country.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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5/4/2024 6:27:47 AM # 1.0.0.1119
I have listed the poem twice, with different titles, and spacing. I will let the reader decide which one they prefer..