One Last Night

My wife slept by me for one last night

I slept in my dress-blues

With my hat still on my head

I slept without a blanket

But a flag instead

I slept in ivory wood,

Encased in peaceful slumber

She played my favorite songs

Though I could not hear

My friend watched over both of us

While she kept watch there

He was told to go home

He was told to leave

But he disobeyed the Sargent

And he stayed with me

He guarded us throughout the night

Standing by the flag

His only response to them was:

“He would want that.”

He was our guardian angel

All of this last night

Just like I had been his

During our last great fight

My wife who slept by me

My friend who didn’t leave

Me in my casket

And a flag that said:

United States Marines

Based on and dedicated to 2nd Lt. James Cathey who died fighting for the land of the free and his wife who stayed beside him for one last night. Also, for the Marine who stood watch over the couple. Thank you to all those who serve!