Sleep Well Poem by Ruby Dodd

Good night, sweet prince, they're playing taps
In that graveyard where you lay
The parade is over, the flags are gone
And they left you here today

Time was, you were happy and laughing and free
Your body was young and strong
But your nation called and you heard the cry
And you hurried to answer the call

Well, you never dreamed when you went away
That Iraq was the place you'd die
On the desert sands where the hot wind blows
And not even a bird can fly

With loving hands to cradle you
Your buddies brought you home
And with the flag they covered you
From Iraq to the garden of stones

And we that remain will honor you
Bright flowers we'll place on you grave
And up above in the free blue sky
The star spangled banner waves

Good night, young prince, whoever you are
Sleep well in your dreamless sleep
Your nation is proud and will guard the spot
Where so many mothers weep

And just over there in the midst of it all
Burns the eternal flame
Yes, the best of our warriors all sleep here
And a cross marks every name