You went away so long ago, to a place you'd never been,
To lend a hand of help and strength to those you never knew,
Though sometimes it was hard for me to understand,
Why you were among the chosen to defend another's land......

In time I came to realize and grow in admiration,
Of the love and courage you so generously gave,
To help protect and serve our nation,
More times than I can recall,
Words of thanks are not near enough.

And even though it hurt your to be away,
Your devotions to us never swerved,
You truly bore the call of duty,
As a bandage of honor and gratitude.

It was as if somehow you were saying "THANKS"
To those who love you and are praying for you,
So many have stood across the years,
Went to serve but did not come home...
They gave their all and even more.

So for me a year's not enough,
To tell you how much we care...
We're all here because you were there,
Inspired by and in humble recognition of all veterans.

So on these Holidays we want to say we LOVE you,
And wish you the best holidays that you can possible have,
To all of you who continue to give themselves on behalf of others,
IN deepest admiration and love for you all.
I send my love and I send my prayers,
And may GOD watch over each and every one of you.

Claudia Austin©
05 November 2006
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