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.
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