I, a Civilian:

Thank you, I a civilian—

Thanks to you;

I will never know

the horrors of battle—

Nor will I know

the fear sparked

by unimaginable bravery

Nor the sorrow

ignited by

immeasurable loss

Nor will I know

sacrifices

too innumerable

in count

The toll time

spent

away from loved ones

There is no

monetary compensation-

Strong-will,

will never suffice;

The suffocating losses

Years never ease away

bodies, gun salutes, and folded flags—

Brothers and sisters

never to be seen again-

knowing each holiday

that dining room table

has a place set

for fallen ,

but never forgotten

comrades

Thanks to you;

I will never know

the catastrophe of missions

your Unit went on -

Nor the horrors

that have permanently

marched into

your altered senses—

Solider,

you may never

see, hear, smell, taste or feel

the same

as if your DNA

has effectively altered

by battle

You’re innocences tainted

by the proximity of war