Sunday 24 April 2016

THE LAST SALUTE





THE LAST SALUTE

As the cold grey blanket of dawn lifted
he shivered, just as he had so long ago. 
He couldn't get the noises out of his head
nor could he forget the smoke or the screams.
Yet, today, his eyes were filled not with smoke, 
but with tears.
They rolled silently down his cheeks
as memories flooded back.

He started to shake, just a little
then she took his hand in hers, 
warm and comforting..
he felt a little easier. 
"Grandad, all these people are here because of you,
because of your mates, because of all you did for us."

She led him to the memorial 
and they laid their poppies, 
then, as they turned to leave,
the small crowd parted and all..as one,
raised their candles in salute.
The last of their ANZACS 
passed peacefully that evening
to rejoin his unit. 
LEST WE FORGET.

 (c)Crissouli 24 April, 2016


Image free use courtesy Pixabay

7 comments:

  1. another beautiful tribute, Chris!

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  2. All I can do with this one is cry. I have no words to describe this. Just the sad thoughts of that day and so thankful my grandfather, seriously injured returned home, but so badly physically and emotionally damaged. He too has now gone to join his comrades

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    Replies
    1. My grandfather passed without telling us anything much at all about those days, but in another post, you will see he had lots to tell. I will post that link shortly.
      This poem was inspired by my memories of laying poppies with him at our local memorial... they are not forgotten.

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  3. ONE ANZAC DAWNING
    http://tinyurl.com/y4lchxxr

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