Tribute To A Soldier

                                   A brave and determined soldier
                                   in a lonely, distant land
                                   with his gear on his back
                                   and his weapon in his hand

                                   He follows his instincts
                                   although the elements are rough
                                   with a hunger in his stomach
                                   he's grown patient and tough

                                   He knows his job well
                                   and does it best as he can
                                   he hasn't slept in quite a while
                                   sleep's not part of the plan

                                   His mind wanders back
                                   to his home faraway
                                   those beautiful, smiling faces
                                   are the highlight of his day

                                   That sweet little baby
                                   he hasn't even seen it yet
                                   he longs to hold it so
                                   and knows its grown quite a bit

                                   Then back to work he goes
                                   with war there's no end
                                   he'll hold on to his thoughts
                                   until he sees them again

                                   The determination in his heart
                                   has become mighty strong
                                   to fight for what he believes in
                                   and everything he's known

                                   The price for freedom
                                   he's willing to give his all
                                   in the eyes of his country
                                   he's a man quite tall

                                   His reason for being there
                                   the old red, white and blue
                                   and that makes him a soldier
                                   through and through

                             Susie Swanson         Published  April 2010