Guest guest Posted February 11, 2000 Report Share Posted February 11, 2000 " We " A veteran stood alone today, Just staring, at the Capitol steps. Wondering, how long it would take, For the leaders, to pay their respect. For decades heroes have been forgotten, Except when all felt the shame. Of the vets that died from yester-year, The one's who had no names. Inside the great Capitol, This veteran noted to himself, Are politicians who like to wave the flag, But look the other way, when asked to help. They know not what they do. For they are politicians, and do it for greed. The veteran does their part, Because of this country's needs. The veteran, alone, stood and starred, Then started to approach the marble steps. " If it's flag waving and honor they want, Then surely, surely, they want a vet! " As the Capitol neared, And the vet approached the first steps, The flag atop the building suddenly snapped, and waved And greeted, the lonely vet. It waved from high atop, the Nation's Capitol. Far removed, from the politician's embrace. It saluted Arlington Cemetery, And all the great, great, heroes, in that place. The flag will never be, For those that think, of only " Me " . The veteran is a veteran, Because, they always think of " We " Donnelly May 1998 " Sincere " Once More I wanted to just write a poem... And write it for some vets. But the more I got to thinking.... The more I started to regret. As we watch today's Veteran Sales... And other secular events. I wonder whatever happened to... Just saying, " thank you " ,.. that was sincere- and really meant? Some will claim they are a veteran... And so they are worthy of praise. Others will not say a word... Yet, both are the heroes that we have raised. People will gather... And folks will spend... but not for the Veteran... And, probably not, from within. Where are all the folks from the past... That would gather and hoist a toast? They'd almost want to stand in line... To give the veteran their most. Today it's a little different... And I'm not, really, sure just why. For just a few years ago... The flags were certainly up And, in fact, were waving quite high.... What is it with our country... That demands so much from its vets. From the giving of their lives... To their living with regrets? But at times when the vet is down... And others are misspent... Along comes another day... To remind us what we meant. Maybe one day, soon to come... Others will finally respect, and not resent... That vets offered to give their lives... And never thought about " percents " . But now the needy veteran will find them... Only, not where they need to be. They'll be found in the stores on merchandise... And not on VA letters... to be. " Give us 'percents' to equate our lives " .... Is what most vets are left to plead for. The dignity is gone, the shame comes on... The hopes are dashed- and even bleed some. When they're forced to play the games... For what they were always promised, It breaks their heart, crushes their spirit... They're left to feel admonished. But most will only die... Sooner than should be... They'd only like some hope... To show their families. So let's hear it for the vets! And let's see it in the stores! But let's hope we see it, real genuine,... And a little " sincere " - once more! Donnelly Captain, USAR 11/11/98 The years that we all have grown. A private stood alone... On watch. Then walking the line... And watching his clock. From 12 to 4... Was his morning shift. Along the berms... Upon the drifts. He paced the line... Along the woods. Bordered by pines... And dreaming of " could's " . The sky was crystal black... And yet so cold. A small twinkle was frozen... Upon his nose. He walked for hours... And tried to stay warm. The sergeant he came, inspected... And was soon gone. The night went on, and... On came the dawn. But in the distance... The silence was torn. At first it was light... Like candles in a gust. Then it was loud... It was Santa Claus, in a rush! " Halt! Who goes there? " ... The private quickly inquired. " It's me! ny, Santa. " ... He then warmly smiled. He pulled on his reindeer... And brought the sleigh to a stop. He hopped out about... And began to hop. What's the matter Santa?... The private did ask. " I got hit in the rear... And Rudolph's got gas. " " But, I brought along with me... A gift from your mom. It's all wrapped up... With a card at the top. " Spying the package... The young private did see. A note from his mom... And the smell of her cookies! Santa climbed back into his sleigh... And was all ready to go. When the private asked Santa... " Is this it? There's not even snow. " Santa stared sadly... And then began to speak. Slowly, but surely.... He sat and then tapped his wreath. The one he had mounted... On the side of his sleigh. He pointed and looked at the soldier... Who now was on his way. " What would you have me... Bring to you this day? A toy, a game, or cookies from home... Upon my sleigh? " The private now looked down in doubt... And felt his shame, as he walked away. For he realized that Xmas... Was just not going to be the same. For as a young child... The private had looked to Xmas. To receive many gifts... Not learning forgiveness. But now the private suddenly realized... As he walked back onto his line. That he was this Nation's gift... To a Country, a People in time. So, onward Santa went... And then, called back just in the nick of time. " Don't forget your cookies... And keep all without freedom in mind! " " When you walk alone on guard duty... And wonder, " what this all for? " . Remember, the little children... The one's who know of war. " Remember when you were young... And oh, how swell it felt. To feel all safe and warm... As the snow outside would melt. Now here you are, all grown and strong... And chosen for the task. Of watching over our generations... That have been 'ever vigilant' in the past. But, it's the cookies now... That brings your memories back home. The smell of youth, the views of past... The years that we all have grown. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to America's Veterans and to all of their supporters. Donnelly 12/24/98 " They have no more Toys " They struggle on by..... like a war torn group. They stare beyond..... Still proud, yet aloof. They fought a war..... Most never knew. They faced a pain..... That grew and grew. Some went away..... At an innocent age. Fought, how they knew..... None of them, were saved. Accused by some, Of shame and hatred..... Others' were cursed, Spit at- berated. Many,..... were very ill. Yet, no one passed the hat. Where were the folks Who were responsible for that? So, off they went..... Alone,..... Into a widening abyss. For years and decades hence..... Not aware of what they've missed. Some may have known of this.......... And remained silent for too long. Three generations of veterans..... All, already gone. Some, they traveled this road..... More than 50 years ago, When it was just a thin path..... Blanketed by a pristine laden snow. Some they fought,..... late into their nights'. They fought through their peril's..... Never knowing their plight. They come from famous wars..... Some liked, some not. But,..... all raised their hands..... Some later lost them- some not. Many sacrificed a limb..... And others, oh, so much more. Some, maybe just a tooth..... But all,.... they lost 'their' war. Their innocence, their prime,..... Their health and their youth, All were cast aside..... Dispelled, and now unused. Many, never knew..... What had even hit them. They later faced problems..... Why no assistance? They now pass on by..... like silent mourners. It's an errie cry..... Like a void, wide open. Not lost, not pained,..... Just distant- permanently refrained. They'll pace for eons now..... There's nothing more to gain. An Army-like mass of folks..... From all kinds, and from all years. But no one laughing..... No jokes, no chuckle, not even a fear. A wandering pilgrimage of stoic folks..... Why, none of them have tears. Their faces are all cast like cement..... Their hearts emptied- no longer cheer. Some they suffered...... Without any hope. Others remained To shed the tears.... But, all were never really told...... What took their pride, Then.....took their health, And finally took their fear's. You can see the line of veterans now..... It stretches back for miles. It meanders from the recent past..... Casting shadows- never a smile. No one is talking,..... All remain quite glib. Some of them are limping,..... Some without hips. Some, yes, did admit,..... That, I was a bad boy. But, who of you will stop and say..... You got what you deserved, and no more toys? They can no longer hear us..... Nor, will they ever respond. Off they shuffle en masse,..... Far away, into the distant- and beyond. Wait! Come back! We are almost there! Soon,.... they are gone,..... Their families' abandoned and despaired. How many more? Where will be the wars? What is the ultimate cost? What's,.....the final score? I see not an end..... To these vets from yore. They no longer have friends..... They have nothing- no more. But what of their lives? But what of the cost? Who'll pay this price? Who'll bear this loss? by Donnelly Captain, USAR 7/4/99 Dedicated to deceased Hepatitis Veterans. Do they really believe...? --------------------------------- They've tainted our image... And offered no hope. Infants now ill... We get nothing- but smoke. Where is the help? Where is the caring? Why no concern? Why the meandering? Why are we told, That we're not even ill? Yet given a needle To take with some pills? Make sure you pay. Money's the cure! Just look at the famous... If you want to be sure. Liver they say! But, blood is the key... So, get a biopsy... The better to see. But what of the tummy... The spleen, and such? What of the heart... The bones, and stuff? Where do we go... When all, it aches? How do you say... listen! Just wait.... I had a sharp pain... It went from here... Went over there... But Now it's disappeared... They look at you weird. Like you've lost your mind. But, they were not taught... So, we look like mimes. Unable to express... Just what we need. They know more than us... Yet, where we 'can' see... That, those whom are trusted... And enabled by law... To render assistance... Have clearly, clearly, dropped the ball. How can we say...? When, though we 'can' speak... Others will 'not' listen. Will not encourage, won't seek. Why no help? Why the delay? Do they really believe... We'll ALL go away? After 60 years, Please give us some help. Why has hepatitis... Been put on a shelf? by Donnelly Hepatitis sufferer 12/5/99 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 11, 2000 Report Share Posted February 11, 2000 " We " A veteran stood alone today, Just staring, at the Capitol steps. Wondering, how long it would take, For the leaders, to pay their respect. For decades heroes have been forgotten, Except when all felt the shame. Of the vets that died from yester-year, The one's who had no names. Inside the great Capitol, This veteran noted to himself, Are politicians who like to wave the flag, But look the other way, when asked to help. They know not what they do. For they are politicians, and do it for greed. The veteran does their part, Because of this country's needs. The veteran, alone, stood and starred, Then started to approach the marble steps. " If it's flag waving and honor they want, Then surely, surely, they want a vet! " As the Capitol neared, And the vet approached the first steps, The flag atop the building suddenly snapped, and waved And greeted, the lonely vet. It waved from high atop, the Nation's Capitol. Far removed, from the politician's embrace. It saluted Arlington Cemetery, And all the great, great, heroes, in that place. The flag will never be, For those that think, of only " Me " . The veteran is a veteran, Because, they always think of " We " Donnelly May 1998 " Sincere " Once More I wanted to just write a poem... And write it for some vets. But the more I got to thinking.... The more I started to regret. As we watch today's Veteran Sales... And other secular events. I wonder whatever happened to... Just saying, " thank you " ,.. that was sincere- and really meant? Some will claim they are a veteran... And so they are worthy of praise. Others will not say a word... Yet, both are the heroes that we have raised. People will gather... And folks will spend... but not for the Veteran... And, probably not, from within. Where are all the folks from the past... That would gather and hoist a toast? They'd almost want to stand in line... To give the veteran their most. Today it's a little different... And I'm not, really, sure just why. For just a few years ago... The flags were certainly up And, in fact, were waving quite high.... What is it with our country... That demands so much from its vets. From the giving of their lives... To their living with regrets? But at times when the vet is down... And others are misspent... Along comes another day... To remind us what we meant. Maybe one day, soon to come... Others will finally respect, and not resent... That vets offered to give their lives... And never thought about " percents " . But now the needy veteran will find them... Only, not where they need to be. They'll be found in the stores on merchandise... And not on VA letters... to be. " Give us 'percents' to equate our lives " .... Is what most vets are left to plead for. The dignity is gone, the shame comes on... The hopes are dashed- and even bleed some. When they're forced to play the games... For what they were always promised, It breaks their heart, crushes their spirit... They're left to feel admonished. But most will only die... Sooner than should be... They'd only like some hope... To show their families. So let's hear it for the vets! And let's see it in the stores! But let's hope we see it, real genuine,... And a little " sincere " - once more! Donnelly Captain, USAR 11/11/98 The years that we all have grown. A private stood alone... On watch. Then walking the line... And watching his clock. From 12 to 4... Was his morning shift. Along the berms... Upon the drifts. He paced the line... Along the woods. Bordered by pines... And dreaming of " could's " . The sky was crystal black... And yet so cold. A small twinkle was frozen... Upon his nose. He walked for hours... And tried to stay warm. The sergeant he came, inspected... And was soon gone. The night went on, and... On came the dawn. But in the distance... The silence was torn. At first it was light... Like candles in a gust. Then it was loud... It was Santa Claus, in a rush! " Halt! Who goes there? " ... The private quickly inquired. " It's me! ny, Santa. " ... He then warmly smiled. He pulled on his reindeer... And brought the sleigh to a stop. He hopped out about... And began to hop. What's the matter Santa?... The private did ask. " I got hit in the rear... And Rudolph's got gas. " " But, I brought along with me... A gift from your mom. It's all wrapped up... With a card at the top. " Spying the package... The young private did see. A note from his mom... And the smell of her cookies! Santa climbed back into his sleigh... And was all ready to go. When the private asked Santa... " Is this it? There's not even snow. " Santa stared sadly... And then began to speak. Slowly, but surely.... He sat and then tapped his wreath. The one he had mounted... On the side of his sleigh. He pointed and looked at the soldier... Who now was on his way. " What would you have me... Bring to you this day? A toy, a game, or cookies from home... Upon my sleigh? " The private now looked down in doubt... And felt his shame, as he walked away. For he realized that Xmas... Was just not going to be the same. For as a young child... The private had looked to Xmas. To receive many gifts... Not learning forgiveness. But now the private suddenly realized... As he walked back onto his line. That he was this Nation's gift... To a Country, a People in time. So, onward Santa went... And then, called back just in the nick of time. " Don't forget your cookies... And keep all without freedom in mind! " " When you walk alone on guard duty... And wonder, " what this all for? " . Remember, the little children... The one's who know of war. " Remember when you were young... And oh, how swell it felt. To feel all safe and warm... As the snow outside would melt. Now here you are, all grown and strong... And chosen for the task. Of watching over our generations... That have been 'ever vigilant' in the past. But, it's the cookies now... That brings your memories back home. The smell of youth, the views of past... The years that we all have grown. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to America's Veterans and to all of their supporters. Donnelly 12/24/98 " They have no more Toys " They struggle on by..... like a war torn group. They stare beyond..... Still proud, yet aloof. They fought a war..... Most never knew. They faced a pain..... That grew and grew. Some went away..... At an innocent age. Fought, how they knew..... None of them, were saved. Accused by some, Of shame and hatred..... Others' were cursed, Spit at- berated. Many,..... were very ill. Yet, no one passed the hat. Where were the folks Who were responsible for that? So, off they went..... Alone,..... Into a widening abyss. For years and decades hence..... Not aware of what they've missed. Some may have known of this.......... And remained silent for too long. Three generations of veterans..... All, already gone. Some, they traveled this road..... More than 50 years ago, When it was just a thin path..... Blanketed by a pristine laden snow. Some they fought,..... late into their nights'. They fought through their peril's..... Never knowing their plight. They come from famous wars..... Some liked, some not. But,..... all raised their hands..... Some later lost them- some not. Many sacrificed a limb..... And others, oh, so much more. Some, maybe just a tooth..... But all,.... they lost 'their' war. Their innocence, their prime,..... Their health and their youth, All were cast aside..... Dispelled, and now unused. Many, never knew..... What had even hit them. They later faced problems..... Why no assistance? They now pass on by..... like silent mourners. It's an errie cry..... Like a void, wide open. Not lost, not pained,..... Just distant- permanently refrained. They'll pace for eons now..... There's nothing more to gain. An Army-like mass of folks..... From all kinds, and from all years. But no one laughing..... No jokes, no chuckle, not even a fear. A wandering pilgrimage of stoic folks..... Why, none of them have tears. Their faces are all cast like cement..... Their hearts emptied- no longer cheer. Some they suffered...... Without any hope. Others remained To shed the tears.... But, all were never really told...... What took their pride, Then.....took their health, And finally took their fear's. You can see the line of veterans now..... It stretches back for miles. It meanders from the recent past..... Casting shadows- never a smile. No one is talking,..... All remain quite glib. Some of them are limping,..... Some without hips. Some, yes, did admit,..... That, I was a bad boy. But, who of you will stop and say..... You got what you deserved, and no more toys? They can no longer hear us..... Nor, will they ever respond. Off they shuffle en masse,..... Far away, into the distant- and beyond. Wait! Come back! We are almost there! Soon,.... they are gone,..... Their families' abandoned and despaired. How many more? Where will be the wars? What is the ultimate cost? What's,.....the final score? I see not an end..... To these vets from yore. They no longer have friends..... They have nothing- no more. But what of their lives? But what of the cost? Who'll pay this price? Who'll bear this loss? by Donnelly Captain, USAR 7/4/99 Dedicated to deceased Hepatitis Veterans. Do they really believe...? --------------------------------- They've tainted our image... And offered no hope. Infants now ill... We get nothing- but smoke. Where is the help? Where is the caring? Why no concern? Why the meandering? Why are we told, That we're not even ill? Yet given a needle To take with some pills? Make sure you pay. Money's the cure! Just look at the famous... If you want to be sure. Liver they say! But, blood is the key... So, get a biopsy... The better to see. But what of the tummy... The spleen, and such? What of the heart... The bones, and stuff? Where do we go... When all, it aches? How do you say... listen! Just wait.... I had a sharp pain... It went from here... Went over there... But Now it's disappeared... They look at you weird. Like you've lost your mind. But, they were not taught... So, we look like mimes. Unable to express... Just what we need. They know more than us... Yet, where we 'can' see... That, those whom are trusted... And enabled by law... To render assistance... Have clearly, clearly, dropped the ball. How can we say...? When, though we 'can' speak... Others will 'not' listen. Will not encourage, won't seek. Why no help? Why the delay? Do they really believe... We'll ALL go away? After 60 years, Please give us some help. Why has hepatitis... Been put on a shelf? by Donnelly Hepatitis sufferer 12/5/99 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 11, 2000 Report Share Posted February 11, 2000 " We " A veteran stood alone today, Just staring, at the Capitol steps. Wondering, how long it would take, For the leaders, to pay their respect. For decades heroes have been forgotten, Except when all felt the shame. Of the vets that died from yester-year, The one's who had no names. Inside the great Capitol, This veteran noted to himself, Are politicians who like to wave the flag, But look the other way, when asked to help. They know not what they do. For they are politicians, and do it for greed. The veteran does their part, Because of this country's needs. The veteran, alone, stood and starred, Then started to approach the marble steps. " If it's flag waving and honor they want, Then surely, surely, they want a vet! " As the Capitol neared, And the vet approached the first steps, The flag atop the building suddenly snapped, and waved And greeted, the lonely vet. It waved from high atop, the Nation's Capitol. Far removed, from the politician's embrace. It saluted Arlington Cemetery, And all the great, great, heroes, in that place. The flag will never be, For those that think, of only " Me " . The veteran is a veteran, Because, they always think of " We " Donnelly May 1998 " Sincere " Once More I wanted to just write a poem... And write it for some vets. But the more I got to thinking.... The more I started to regret. As we watch today's Veteran Sales... And other secular events. I wonder whatever happened to... Just saying, " thank you " ,.. that was sincere- and really meant? Some will claim they are a veteran... And so they are worthy of praise. Others will not say a word... Yet, both are the heroes that we have raised. People will gather... And folks will spend... but not for the Veteran... And, probably not, from within. Where are all the folks from the past... That would gather and hoist a toast? They'd almost want to stand in line... To give the veteran their most. Today it's a little different... And I'm not, really, sure just why. For just a few years ago... The flags were certainly up And, in fact, were waving quite high.... What is it with our country... That demands so much from its vets. From the giving of their lives... To their living with regrets? But at times when the vet is down... And others are misspent... Along comes another day... To remind us what we meant. Maybe one day, soon to come... Others will finally respect, and not resent... That vets offered to give their lives... And never thought about " percents " . But now the needy veteran will find them... Only, not where they need to be. They'll be found in the stores on merchandise... And not on VA letters... to be. " Give us 'percents' to equate our lives " .... Is what most vets are left to plead for. The dignity is gone, the shame comes on... The hopes are dashed- and even bleed some. When they're forced to play the games... For what they were always promised, It breaks their heart, crushes their spirit... They're left to feel admonished. But most will only die... Sooner than should be... They'd only like some hope... To show their families. So let's hear it for the vets! And let's see it in the stores! But let's hope we see it, real genuine,... And a little " sincere " - once more! Donnelly Captain, USAR 11/11/98 The years that we all have grown. A private stood alone... On watch. Then walking the line... And watching his clock. From 12 to 4... Was his morning shift. Along the berms... Upon the drifts. He paced the line... Along the woods. Bordered by pines... And dreaming of " could's " . The sky was crystal black... And yet so cold. A small twinkle was frozen... Upon his nose. He walked for hours... And tried to stay warm. The sergeant he came, inspected... And was soon gone. The night went on, and... On came the dawn. But in the distance... The silence was torn. At first it was light... Like candles in a gust. Then it was loud... It was Santa Claus, in a rush! " Halt! Who goes there? " ... The private quickly inquired. " It's me! ny, Santa. " ... He then warmly smiled. He pulled on his reindeer... And brought the sleigh to a stop. He hopped out about... And began to hop. What's the matter Santa?... The private did ask. " I got hit in the rear... And Rudolph's got gas. " " But, I brought along with me... A gift from your mom. It's all wrapped up... With a card at the top. " Spying the package... The young private did see. A note from his mom... And the smell of her cookies! Santa climbed back into his sleigh... And was all ready to go. When the private asked Santa... " Is this it? There's not even snow. " Santa stared sadly... And then began to speak. Slowly, but surely.... He sat and then tapped his wreath. The one he had mounted... On the side of his sleigh. He pointed and looked at the soldier... Who now was on his way. " What would you have me... Bring to you this day? A toy, a game, or cookies from home... Upon my sleigh? " The private now looked down in doubt... And felt his shame, as he walked away. For he realized that Xmas... Was just not going to be the same. For as a young child... The private had looked to Xmas. To receive many gifts... Not learning forgiveness. But now the private suddenly realized... As he walked back onto his line. That he was this Nation's gift... To a Country, a People in time. So, onward Santa went... And then, called back just in the nick of time. " Don't forget your cookies... And keep all without freedom in mind! " " When you walk alone on guard duty... And wonder, " what this all for? " . Remember, the little children... The one's who know of war. " Remember when you were young... And oh, how swell it felt. To feel all safe and warm... As the snow outside would melt. Now here you are, all grown and strong... And chosen for the task. Of watching over our generations... That have been 'ever vigilant' in the past. But, it's the cookies now... That brings your memories back home. The smell of youth, the views of past... The years that we all have grown. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to America's Veterans and to all of their supporters. Donnelly 12/24/98 " They have no more Toys " They struggle on by..... like a war torn group. They stare beyond..... Still proud, yet aloof. They fought a war..... Most never knew. They faced a pain..... That grew and grew. Some went away..... At an innocent age. Fought, how they knew..... None of them, were saved. Accused by some, Of shame and hatred..... Others' were cursed, Spit at- berated. Many,..... were very ill. Yet, no one passed the hat. Where were the folks Who were responsible for that? So, off they went..... Alone,..... Into a widening abyss. For years and decades hence..... Not aware of what they've missed. Some may have known of this.......... And remained silent for too long. Three generations of veterans..... All, already gone. Some, they traveled this road..... More than 50 years ago, When it was just a thin path..... Blanketed by a pristine laden snow. Some they fought,..... late into their nights'. They fought through their peril's..... Never knowing their plight. They come from famous wars..... Some liked, some not. But,..... all raised their hands..... Some later lost them- some not. Many sacrificed a limb..... And others, oh, so much more. Some, maybe just a tooth..... But all,.... they lost 'their' war. Their innocence, their prime,..... Their health and their youth, All were cast aside..... Dispelled, and now unused. Many, never knew..... What had even hit them. They later faced problems..... Why no assistance? They now pass on by..... like silent mourners. It's an errie cry..... Like a void, wide open. Not lost, not pained,..... Just distant- permanently refrained. They'll pace for eons now..... There's nothing more to gain. An Army-like mass of folks..... From all kinds, and from all years. But no one laughing..... No jokes, no chuckle, not even a fear. A wandering pilgrimage of stoic folks..... Why, none of them have tears. Their faces are all cast like cement..... Their hearts emptied- no longer cheer. Some they suffered...... Without any hope. Others remained To shed the tears.... But, all were never really told...... What took their pride, Then.....took their health, And finally took their fear's. You can see the line of veterans now..... It stretches back for miles. It meanders from the recent past..... Casting shadows- never a smile. No one is talking,..... All remain quite glib. Some of them are limping,..... Some without hips. Some, yes, did admit,..... That, I was a bad boy. But, who of you will stop and say..... You got what you deserved, and no more toys? They can no longer hear us..... Nor, will they ever respond. Off they shuffle en masse,..... Far away, into the distant- and beyond. Wait! Come back! We are almost there! Soon,.... they are gone,..... Their families' abandoned and despaired. How many more? Where will be the wars? What is the ultimate cost? What's,.....the final score? I see not an end..... To these vets from yore. They no longer have friends..... They have nothing- no more. But what of their lives? But what of the cost? Who'll pay this price? Who'll bear this loss? by Donnelly Captain, USAR 7/4/99 Dedicated to deceased Hepatitis Veterans. Do they really believe...? --------------------------------- They've tainted our image... And offered no hope. Infants now ill... We get nothing- but smoke. Where is the help? Where is the caring? Why no concern? Why the meandering? Why are we told, That we're not even ill? Yet given a needle To take with some pills? Make sure you pay. Money's the cure! Just look at the famous... If you want to be sure. Liver they say! But, blood is the key... So, get a biopsy... The better to see. But what of the tummy... The spleen, and such? What of the heart... The bones, and stuff? Where do we go... When all, it aches? How do you say... listen! Just wait.... I had a sharp pain... It went from here... Went over there... But Now it's disappeared... They look at you weird. Like you've lost your mind. But, they were not taught... So, we look like mimes. Unable to express... Just what we need. They know more than us... Yet, where we 'can' see... That, those whom are trusted... And enabled by law... To render assistance... Have clearly, clearly, dropped the ball. How can we say...? When, though we 'can' speak... Others will 'not' listen. Will not encourage, won't seek. Why no help? Why the delay? Do they really believe... We'll ALL go away? After 60 years, Please give us some help. Why has hepatitis... Been put on a shelf? by Donnelly Hepatitis sufferer 12/5/99 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 11, 2000 Report Share Posted February 11, 2000 " We " A veteran stood alone today, Just staring, at the Capitol steps. Wondering, how long it would take, For the leaders, to pay their respect. For decades heroes have been forgotten, Except when all felt the shame. Of the vets that died from yester-year, The one's who had no names. Inside the great Capitol, This veteran noted to himself, Are politicians who like to wave the flag, But look the other way, when asked to help. They know not what they do. For they are politicians, and do it for greed. The veteran does their part, Because of this country's needs. The veteran, alone, stood and starred, Then started to approach the marble steps. " If it's flag waving and honor they want, Then surely, surely, they want a vet! " As the Capitol neared, And the vet approached the first steps, The flag atop the building suddenly snapped, and waved And greeted, the lonely vet. It waved from high atop, the Nation's Capitol. Far removed, from the politician's embrace. It saluted Arlington Cemetery, And all the great, great, heroes, in that place. The flag will never be, For those that think, of only " Me " . The veteran is a veteran, Because, they always think of " We " Donnelly May 1998 " Sincere " Once More I wanted to just write a poem... And write it for some vets. But the more I got to thinking.... The more I started to regret. As we watch today's Veteran Sales... And other secular events. I wonder whatever happened to... Just saying, " thank you " ,.. that was sincere- and really meant? Some will claim they are a veteran... And so they are worthy of praise. Others will not say a word... Yet, both are the heroes that we have raised. People will gather... And folks will spend... but not for the Veteran... And, probably not, from within. Where are all the folks from the past... That would gather and hoist a toast? They'd almost want to stand in line... To give the veteran their most. Today it's a little different... And I'm not, really, sure just why. For just a few years ago... The flags were certainly up And, in fact, were waving quite high.... What is it with our country... That demands so much from its vets. From the giving of their lives... To their living with regrets? But at times when the vet is down... And others are misspent... Along comes another day... To remind us what we meant. Maybe one day, soon to come... Others will finally respect, and not resent... That vets offered to give their lives... And never thought about " percents " . But now the needy veteran will find them... Only, not where they need to be. They'll be found in the stores on merchandise... And not on VA letters... to be. " Give us 'percents' to equate our lives " .... Is what most vets are left to plead for. The dignity is gone, the shame comes on... The hopes are dashed- and even bleed some. When they're forced to play the games... For what they were always promised, It breaks their heart, crushes their spirit... They're left to feel admonished. But most will only die... Sooner than should be... They'd only like some hope... To show their families. So let's hear it for the vets! And let's see it in the stores! But let's hope we see it, real genuine,... And a little " sincere " - once more! Donnelly Captain, USAR 11/11/98 The years that we all have grown. A private stood alone... On watch. Then walking the line... And watching his clock. From 12 to 4... Was his morning shift. Along the berms... Upon the drifts. He paced the line... Along the woods. Bordered by pines... And dreaming of " could's " . The sky was crystal black... And yet so cold. A small twinkle was frozen... Upon his nose. He walked for hours... And tried to stay warm. The sergeant he came, inspected... And was soon gone. The night went on, and... On came the dawn. But in the distance... The silence was torn. At first it was light... Like candles in a gust. Then it was loud... It was Santa Claus, in a rush! " Halt! Who goes there? " ... The private quickly inquired. " It's me! ny, Santa. " ... He then warmly smiled. He pulled on his reindeer... And brought the sleigh to a stop. He hopped out about... And began to hop. What's the matter Santa?... The private did ask. " I got hit in the rear... And Rudolph's got gas. " " But, I brought along with me... A gift from your mom. It's all wrapped up... With a card at the top. " Spying the package... The young private did see. A note from his mom... And the smell of her cookies! Santa climbed back into his sleigh... And was all ready to go. When the private asked Santa... " Is this it? There's not even snow. " Santa stared sadly... And then began to speak. Slowly, but surely.... He sat and then tapped his wreath. The one he had mounted... On the side of his sleigh. He pointed and looked at the soldier... Who now was on his way. " What would you have me... Bring to you this day? A toy, a game, or cookies from home... Upon my sleigh? " The private now looked down in doubt... And felt his shame, as he walked away. For he realized that Xmas... Was just not going to be the same. For as a young child... The private had looked to Xmas. To receive many gifts... Not learning forgiveness. But now the private suddenly realized... As he walked back onto his line. That he was this Nation's gift... To a Country, a People in time. So, onward Santa went... And then, called back just in the nick of time. " Don't forget your cookies... And keep all without freedom in mind! " " When you walk alone on guard duty... And wonder, " what this all for? " . Remember, the little children... The one's who know of war. " Remember when you were young... And oh, how swell it felt. To feel all safe and warm... As the snow outside would melt. Now here you are, all grown and strong... And chosen for the task. Of watching over our generations... That have been 'ever vigilant' in the past. But, it's the cookies now... That brings your memories back home. The smell of youth, the views of past... The years that we all have grown. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to America's Veterans and to all of their supporters. Donnelly 12/24/98 " They have no more Toys " They struggle on by..... like a war torn group. They stare beyond..... Still proud, yet aloof. They fought a war..... Most never knew. They faced a pain..... That grew and grew. Some went away..... At an innocent age. Fought, how they knew..... None of them, were saved. Accused by some, Of shame and hatred..... Others' were cursed, Spit at- berated. Many,..... were very ill. Yet, no one passed the hat. Where were the folks Who were responsible for that? So, off they went..... Alone,..... Into a widening abyss. For years and decades hence..... Not aware of what they've missed. Some may have known of this.......... And remained silent for too long. Three generations of veterans..... All, already gone. Some, they traveled this road..... More than 50 years ago, When it was just a thin path..... Blanketed by a pristine laden snow. Some they fought,..... late into their nights'. They fought through their peril's..... Never knowing their plight. They come from famous wars..... Some liked, some not. But,..... all raised their hands..... Some later lost them- some not. Many sacrificed a limb..... And others, oh, so much more. Some, maybe just a tooth..... But all,.... they lost 'their' war. Their innocence, their prime,..... Their health and their youth, All were cast aside..... Dispelled, and now unused. Many, never knew..... What had even hit them. They later faced problems..... Why no assistance? They now pass on by..... like silent mourners. It's an errie cry..... Like a void, wide open. Not lost, not pained,..... Just distant- permanently refrained. They'll pace for eons now..... There's nothing more to gain. An Army-like mass of folks..... From all kinds, and from all years. But no one laughing..... No jokes, no chuckle, not even a fear. A wandering pilgrimage of stoic folks..... Why, none of them have tears. Their faces are all cast like cement..... Their hearts emptied- no longer cheer. Some they suffered...... Without any hope. Others remained To shed the tears.... But, all were never really told...... What took their pride, Then.....took their health, And finally took their fear's. You can see the line of veterans now..... It stretches back for miles. It meanders from the recent past..... Casting shadows- never a smile. No one is talking,..... All remain quite glib. Some of them are limping,..... Some without hips. Some, yes, did admit,..... That, I was a bad boy. But, who of you will stop and say..... You got what you deserved, and no more toys? They can no longer hear us..... Nor, will they ever respond. Off they shuffle en masse,..... Far away, into the distant- and beyond. Wait! Come back! We are almost there! Soon,.... they are gone,..... Their families' abandoned and despaired. How many more? Where will be the wars? What is the ultimate cost? What's,.....the final score? I see not an end..... To these vets from yore. They no longer have friends..... They have nothing- no more. But what of their lives? But what of the cost? Who'll pay this price? Who'll bear this loss? by Donnelly Captain, USAR 7/4/99 Dedicated to deceased Hepatitis Veterans. Do they really believe...? --------------------------------- They've tainted our image... And offered no hope. Infants now ill... We get nothing- but smoke. Where is the help? Where is the caring? Why no concern? Why the meandering? Why are we told, That we're not even ill? Yet given a needle To take with some pills? Make sure you pay. Money's the cure! Just look at the famous... If you want to be sure. Liver they say! But, blood is the key... So, get a biopsy... The better to see. But what of the tummy... The spleen, and such? What of the heart... The bones, and stuff? Where do we go... When all, it aches? How do you say... listen! Just wait.... I had a sharp pain... It went from here... Went over there... But Now it's disappeared... They look at you weird. Like you've lost your mind. But, they were not taught... So, we look like mimes. Unable to express... Just what we need. They know more than us... Yet, where we 'can' see... That, those whom are trusted... And enabled by law... To render assistance... Have clearly, clearly, dropped the ball. How can we say...? When, though we 'can' speak... Others will 'not' listen. Will not encourage, won't seek. Why no help? Why the delay? Do they really believe... We'll ALL go away? After 60 years, Please give us some help. Why has hepatitis... Been put on a shelf? by Donnelly Hepatitis sufferer 12/5/99 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.