To you - the bold and strong

For your dedication and service

To you - the willful and mighty

For defeating the enemies

Your bravery cannot be compared

And rewards are but feeble

For your acts are beyond compensation

And to repay you, we'd forever be unable

But life is about trying

And till it ceases to be

Your praises we forever sing

Telling of how you set us free

Laying yourself a living sacrifice

To fight for your country

Defying the greatest odds

You swore to uphold her dignity

Oh great friend of valor

How we are richly indebted to you

Your services shall forever be appreciated

And your tales will be remembered too

Author's Note

This poem is about paying tribute to soldiers who have returned from war. It's a small gesture, considering all the sacrifices they've made. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't try.

The life of a soldier, following a war, can be a difficult one - both physically and mentally.

Just remember, the smallest gesture - even a thank you letter - can make the world of difference to a veteran who helped to preserve the freedoms we enjoy each and every day.

Today, we find ourselves fighting a different kind of war with COVID-19. It will take the efforts of everyone to win this conflict, but make not mistake - we will prevail.

I'd like to dedicate this chapter to the countless men and women around the world who are helping in the fight against this invisible COVID-19 enemy. To all the medical professionals, military personnel, medical equipment workers, mask makers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, volunteer workers, food pantry workers, grocery store workers, convenience store clerks, take-out food workers, and everyday hometown heroes ...

THIS CHAPTER IS FOR YOU!

Thank you for doing everything in your power

to protect us and to help us get through the COVID-19 pandemic.