Forever Soldiers

Some of you old timers might remember the days when Army and Soldiers magazine used to have pinup cheesecake photos on the back cover. They also published poetry (I assume) written by service members. I made a point of keeping some of the clippings. As I was sorting boxes yesterday I found this gem and wanted to share it with everyone. I wish I could take credit for it but it is someone else's work. So whoever and wherever you are T.J.B, thanks for the thought.

Soldiers should not be too much farewelled.
The world is far too small
and service much to wide
For any fighting man to ever hide
For long from those with whom he's dwelled.

We know on parting we'll again be meeting.
Perhaps in some good club
(martinis made with care),
Or in some riddled shelter we may share,
Where bursting rounds will underscore our greeting.

Departure should not overly be grieved
Among our kind.
We'll meet again, unless
One of us makes that final PCS.
And even the, I've always half believed.

That somewhere up beyond the pearly gates
On the compound of the great commander, waits
A quiet bar - celestial brew on draught -
Where souls of soldiers gather now and then to laugh
At the frustrations of the devil's staff,
And send their best to soldiers still below,
And wait in comfort for old friends to show.

T.J.B