Valor Poem by Lynn W. Petty

The dictionary describes "Valor" as:
Qualities of a hero or heroine; exceptional courage
When facing danger; facing the unknown with boldness
And gallantry. But, valor comes in many different forms.
I have seen valor on the battlefront as soldiers disembarked
From boat to beach.
I have read of those who gave their lives to save
Their buddies from the wrath of war.
Yet, there is another valor, a silent valor, shown on the faces
Of those who are not in physical combat, soldier against soldier,
But, who have just as much a life threatening struggle.
There is no noise, clash of weapons, shield against shield,
Or screams of pain, just silence, cold, weary silence;
Battle fatigue, as shown by the posture of those who
Return from the front; veterans of that silent war
Of personal combat.
Wave after wave of seasoned combatants pass me by as I,
A new inductee with them, wage our own personal battle
Against our common enemy,
Cancer.