I watch him

Skin now filthy

Eyes solemned over time

Hands newly caloused

 

His uniform, once loose

Now is hardly even big

His helmet secure

Eyes knowing

 

He keeps a hand on his gun

It's old and rusty

But he handles it well

Just like the rest of us

 

No training before battle 

Dropped into this war

He didn't cause

Yet he's readier than the rest of us.

 

He's strong and determined,

Still is so patriotic.

His toughened hand

Salutes Ol' Glory

 

Then the alarm sounds,

He's up and standing firm, 

As the rest of us scramble.

He's ready to go.

 

He's more agile,

He's more able

He's quicker,

And braver.

 

He's accepted his fate

He chooses to do all he can

While he still can

Decides to be a hero

 

I watch as he leads our troop

Killer instincts,

Lightning reflexes

Fast judgements

 

And one one wrong move

He's on the ground 

In a pool of melted roses

A symbol of honor born through his chest

 

I stand in front of the casket,

Watching the salute,

His picture revealing his past

He was so hopeful

 

How did this happen?

Why'd he have to die?

Does he know we won?

The trophy we brought home...

 

Why?

Oh...

Why?

Why was he even there?

 

He was only fourteen...