Day after day and night after night

You weren’t in the comfort of your own home.

There were holidays you couldn’t be there

You missed anniversaries with your wives,

the birthdays of your kids

and some even missed their child being born.

Each day you put your life on the line.

You put on a brave face and did what you had to.

You left your families, not knowing of your return

but reassuring loved ones that you will be back. 

Saying goodbye and smiling then turning around

You couldn’t let your beautiful wife

or your precious child witnesses the tears.

You had to give them the strength,

the strength that everyone around you needed. 

As they disappeared out of sight

another goodbye was over, 

and another battle was coming.

You had to wipe away the tears, 

clear your mind and prepare yourself.

You volunteered your life to protect others.

You left homes, sometimes even your country

just to keep our freedom.

We have not known you all, but we owe you all.

to those who have served,

Thank you for protecting us.