A rememberance

[Guest guest]

with both the Marine Corps birthday and Veterans/Remembrance Day hard upon

us, let us take a moment to recall those who have served, and those who

still serve, for all gave some, but some gave all.

THE FINAL INSPECTION

Author: Sgt Helterbran

The soldier stood and faced God,

Which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining,

Just as brightly as his brass.

" Step forward now, you soldier,

How shall I deal with you?

Have you always turned the other cheek?

To my Church have you been true? "

The soldier squared his soldiers and said,

" No, Lord, I guess I ain't.

Because those of us who carry guns,

Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,

And at times my talk was tough.

And sometimes I've been violent,

Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,

That wasn't mine to keep...

Though I worked a lot of overtime,

When the bills just got too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,

Though at times I shook with fear.

And sometimes, God, forgive me,

I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place,

Among the people here.

They never wanted me around,

Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,

It needn't be so grand.

I never expected or had too much,

But if you don't, I'll understand. "

There was a silence all around the throne,

Where the saints had often trod.

As the soldier waited quietly,

For the judgement of his God.

" Step forward now, you soldier,

You've borne your burdens well.

Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,

You've done your time in Hell. "

ck