The Bravest of Men.
Updated: Dec 16, 2020
Foreword - I have no real experience of war, nor what it is like to serve in the armed forces. The men and women of our armed forces do an extremely and valuable duty for their country, and do so without question. I have the utmost respect for anyone who has served, and is serving in our armed forces today, and I would like to thank all of you who have served, still serve, and have paid the ultimate sacrifice in keeping my family and country safe and free. As we are approaching the centenary marking the end of WW1 I was inspired to write the below poem about my perception on the futility of war.
Whistler Blows Cheeks puffed red Signals time as the sun sinks low Terrified eyes fixed, he sees below.
Over the top they go Souls filled with dread Covered and warm preferred To the coldness of lead.
Not knowing the fate that awaits them The bravest of men depart Not only trench, but the life they knew Fought for what, in the end a broken heart?
The whistles above The fountains of dirt Fall from above, behind and in front Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide Reality of the grim and the hurt.
Battlefield smoke surrounding Shells falling and pounding Enveloping him to distract
From the horror of war Hells gates flung open afore Frozen his fear, cannot act.
Fallen he is Peaceful silence for his Last intake of breath
On Flanders fields he lays
Breeze gently blows today Though not his memory away
Across rolling lands farmed Their memories live on will say To those who have breath.
The bravest of men we were We fought to the end and lured To our prize? Rewarded with death.
(©) Dom Giddy 2018