When the Last Flag is Lowered

I wrote this short poem sometime in the late 70s or early 80s while I was assigned to the 82d Airborne Division. This was during the Cold War when the Soviet Bear was still the primary threat to America. As poetry goes it isn't great, but I still like the message. MRW



When the last flag is lowered, will you be there with head held high and heart full of pride? Or will you dwell in the shadows with the guilt you try to hide?

Two hundred years plus, this country has stood tall, because there have always been volunteers willing to raise their hand? Someone always there to make the supreme sacrifice – to take the valiant stand.

There were turbulent years when the country was torn asunder. And there were the years when we pulled together, to correct another’s blunder.

When the bugles and drums sound once more, will you be there? Or will you turn your back and act like you really don’t care?

The question is yours, and one that you must soon decide. Will you be there, or will you hide?

Michael R. Woods
Written sometime during the Cold War