THE  GATHERING
by
William L. Little
Copyright 2004

(A tribute to the spirit embodied in our Nation’s Vietnam War Memorial)


Forevermore now in formation they stand, mustered on this mall
In silent reminder of their allegiance to their country’s call.


Line upon line embodied here, erect and at full attention
Etched in white on a wall of black, but only in two dimension.


From reveille until taps now formed, from dusk to early dawn
In weather both foul and fair they stand, but never again alone.


All of equal stature now, no rank…no color…no creed
Embraced in one accord at last, Sentinels over freedoms seed.


So gathered here by their countrymen, with love and joined conviction
To right the wrong of honor past due, with homage of their names inscription.


In reverent reminder to all who come, to insure our never forgetting
That liberty is not a right that’s free, but requires a price most indebting.


For it is we they were, and we they are, and we they pined to be
Thus is our charge to carry their flame, to fulfill their destiny.


So regardless of how we may attend, let this one fact ring true
When in this hallowed place, we stand  for their review.


To answer but one question, from whence they now abide
And that as to who will, when duty next calls, also turn aside.

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