Tragedy and Triumph

Will you ever know my victories and defeats?

The people you once defended sleep with no care. They don’t remember you, but mother does. Nights are long, as she tosses and turns in loneliness. She fights to keep the tenderest memories from hurting her the most.

They say you upheld loyalty, where was that loyalty to her?

They say you would never abandon anyone. Why did you abandon us?

They say you lived by duty. Why did you exclude familial duty and us?

So, you won the highest honor, but let me tell you, a piece of metal is a cold, hard bargain for one warm and gentle hug.

If you were the defender, then why are your own defenseless?

Here I am, needing your advice and fabled wisdom. I can only scan through the limited memories I have of you. A pair of unworn combat boots reminds me of the battlefield called life without you.

There is that trace of a lingering scent though. It gets triggered when I see the lofty pines standing so proud. Your encouraging words had to be logged short. They froze midway like my unwiped tears, and I learn to fend for myself. I try hard to recall your voice. I call out to you from the top of my lungs. All I hear is the whispering of leaves in response to the roaring wind.

Some say you were inspirational, and my morale could really use a boost. Where have I not searched for you? I delved deep within the recesses of my mind for you, scoured every nook and cranny. But Dad, you left too early to leave behind a retrievable cache of memories.

Who would have thought? The one who took you away from me instilled the very values you upheld. It says I am that part of you that never quits. I’ll try be that loyal team player, and not just think of our family without you. I’ll toughen up, and one day I will surely realize you had to do what you did to protect freedoms of people who will never know you. I will remain disciplined, while they continue to take freedom for granted. I promise I will honor and guard it like you did. Rest assured, I will learn to respect our sacrifice despite their ignorance.

I am the daughter of the valiant American soldier, and I have looked long and hard for you. Finally, I found you and your voice in the Soldier’s Creed. This time I will not let you go.