Stand Down Soldier Poem

The poem the soldier is one of english poet rupert brooke s 1887 1915 most evocative and poignant poems and an example of the dangers of romanticizing world war i comforting the survivors but downplaying the grim reality.

Stand down soldier poem. Because those of us who carry guns can t always be a saint. Written in 1914 the lines are still used in military memorials today. He said soldier i m sure glad you came today for soon ole buddy i ll be leaving this place. Have you always turned the other cheek.

I had come to say good bye to my comrade for after today i would see him no more. Va health care systems organize stand downs to bring va services to homeless veterans in the community. You then head out and walk through the gate. I noticed an old familiar smile on his face.

There is courage in a soldier you can see it in his eyes there is loyalty in a. To my church have you been true. Stand downs are typically one to three day events providing services to homeless veterans such as food shelter clothing health screenings va social security benefits counseling and referrals to a variety of other necessary services such as housing. Step forward you soldier how shall i deal with you.

Your duty is done. Stand down soldier your mission is done the danger over there s no need to run you were trained well to obey each demand so take this and heed this final command rest your body close your eyes as we weep the loss when a good soldier dies bask in peace that you can enjoy embrace it for us let it too be our joy the life you have lived. The soldier squared his soldiers and said no lord i guess i ain t. He was sitting up as if waiting for me.

The soldier stood and faced god which must always come to pass he hoped his shoes were shining just as bright as his brass. I became frozen standing there at his door. The solider squared his shoulders and said no lord i guess i ain t because those of us who carry guns. With your last train warrant in hand you visit the guard room.

A new poem is commissioned to honor the soldiers who fight america s wars pulitzer prize winning poet yusef komunyakaa writes after the burn pits for the national portrait gallery. You ve handed all your kit back in and your clearance chit is all signed off. Who we are and what we do.