Allegiance pledged.
One last salute
while flanked by mourners dressed in suits.
My mother wept for her best friend
as I grieved for my dad.

This one who heard his Uncle call
and promised he would give his all
would fight to keep our nation free
and made his Uncle proud.

So on this day Old Glory waves
at football fields or grassy graves,
I’ll honor veterans everywhere
with thanks and prayers for peace.