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The second day of the
battle falls into darkness
igniting another round of
volleys. The familiar cracks of
rifle fire, whistles of passing
artillery, and booms that
accompany them are augmented by
the distinctive aroma of burned
gun-powder. Though heavily
medicated with drugs from the VA
and alcohol it is all I can do
to prevent myself from reacting
physically.
That does not stop
the autonomic system and the
mind from reacting. Pulse and
blood pressure rise causing
already sensitive areas of the
body to throb with the increased
force. The scrapbook of my mind
spews up random pictures long
buried but not forgotten. With
the pictures comes the feelings,
anger, sadness, duty, terror,
regret, suicide.
This is
what Independence Day has become
for me. From the day the tents
begin to rise to the day the
final firework is used. I relive
those days and nights,
throughout the world that caused
so many emotions in me.
By Mark I. Kirkmeyer
Copyright 2006
About
Author...
Robert Beskar served with the 916th Air Refueling Squadron, USAF, out of
Travis AFB, Ca. from 1968 to 1972 as a crew chief on a KC-135A, air
refueling tanker. He and his “Bird” spent several months, off and
on, Temporary Duty in South East Asia in support of the Vietnam War
effort and earned the rank of SSGT before his tour ended. Bob is
very proud to have served his country. Since 9-11, Robert has written
many patriotic poems to honor his country and the men and women who
have, and still do defend it! His poems reflect those feelings and
he continues to keep these brave souls in his thoughts and writings.
His fervent desire: That freedom forever reigns because of their
sacrifices!It is illegal to
use this essay without the author's permission.
~~ Send your comments and/or use permission request to
Robert W. Beskar ~~
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