All veterans know that training only goes so far,
We firmly grasped just what it took to “raise the bar.”
In any war, in any conflict, to begin
You can’t go through the motions and expect to win.
We found out early on, as veterans of war,
The utter need to know what we were fighting for.
This goes beyond mere self, beyond mere single tense;
Without something much greater, there is no defense.
What we were fighting for was principle, no less;
We had much more than loved ones by themselves to bless.
America, despite its faults, gave us at length
Exactly what was needed, formulating strength.
So understanding this, we veterans expect—
In fact, demand—that it is shown respect.
In any war or conflict, any battle fought,
This act is seen: to give of yourself, with no measure of thought.
To those who harbor grievances they wish to tag,
Cannot in proper sequence disrespect the flag.
© Richard Williams