Mail Call

.

Mail Call

My dad received an invitation

for an all-expense-paid flight

to Washington, D.C.

He and many other elder statesmen

long-ago dressed in military uniforms,

journey soon to visit

the WWII Memorial built

in their honor.

Upon their return

to Midway Airport in Chicago,

a familiar though long-gone sight awaits:

Mail Call

the same kind of Mail Call

woven into their days

during the war.

My dad and I exchange communication

as a rare event these days,

most of my news

about him

or my mom

reaches me via my sister,

but I would not miss this opportunity

no matter our distance

to share my gratitude

for his bravery

dedication

and commitment to freedom

that I embrace as matter-of-fact

every day of my life.

To all of our servicemen, past,

present and--unfortunately--future,

though I detest war

in all forms

consider none worth the bullets,

deaths and ruined lives

still I

thank you for your service

to this country.

by judy Beaston

April 25, 2015