To The Few Who Knew

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To The Few Who Knew

I was the kid who'd seen too much
With the vacant look on my face
You called it a 'Thousand Yard Stare'
When I gazed off into that space

I didn't know what you meant
Until you explained it to me
And in spite of all my protests
You tried to help me get free

I never saw combat like you did
But you told me it didn't matter
Warfare comes in other ways you said
You knew my life had been shattered

Though others thought I was crazy
When I lashed out in anger and fear
You understood ... you shielded me
Kept people from coming too near

You never once pressed me to talk
Of the pain, fear or violence
But I sat with you all and I listened
No longer alone in my silence

I heard your memories of Ia Drang
And the nightmares of Khe Sanh
You and your brothers gave me
Hope from the light of your dawn

I think of you when the memories come
As I fight my way through the maze
You still help me now even though
We've long since gone separate ways

You're always on my mind
When I hear the bugle's sad call
And I cried for the men you told me about
When I stood in front of The Wall

You touched an untouchable kid
When others turned away
I've never forgotten your kindness
Your memories with me will stay

You all are much of the reason
I ride with the Patriot Guard
To honor those who've given so much
Although sometimes it is hard

I ride for some of your brothers now
And quietly claim them as mine
In honor and memory of all of you
I stand with my flag in the line