Language of Enchantment - THE OLD VETERAN

The Old Veteran

“How old are you?” I asked him

And he answered, “Eighty three”

Although his steps were faltering,

His face was wrinkle free

I sat beside him on the stoop

That faced the blue bayou

He waved to some kids fishing there

Like they were someone he knew.

“Your grandchildren?” I inquired

And he nodded in delight

“Yeah, that’s Chase and Chance… and Caroline

Must have slipped out of my sight.

She’s almost sixteen.” He apologized

For not knowing where she’d gone

“Probably went to grab a coke

But I’m sure she won’t be long.”

I noticed the American flag

Was pinned to his lapel.

I complimented him on this

And, I swear, his chest did swell.

He sat up straight and solid

And he patted it a mite.

“Yeah, I do love wearing this thing

And I think I’ve earned the right.

I fought beside her there in France...

Forced Hitler’s army back.

That sure was a bloody battle…

Thought I’d die in that attack.

But, hey, they gave me medals…

Made me a regular hero.

Shucks, who wouldn’t fight for freedom

When you love your country so?

Yet you can't take it for granted,

He clenched his fist real tight.

There were too many body bags

For the ones lost in that fight.

Naw, we paid in blood protecting

These freedoms we’ve enjoyed

And those who burn the flag today…

Darn, I hate getting annoyed!”

He stood straight up as his grand daughter

Ran up to take his hand.

I stood up at full attention

As I saluted this great man.

Doris Jacobs-Covington

November 10, 2012
Revisited Verteran's Day 2014

Dedicated to the memory of my husband

~~Ishmael Covington~~

And to every veteran who has served in
every war defending these United States
of America.

ISH COVINGTON...AGE 18

Psalm 144:1

Blessed be the Lord, my rock,

who trains my hands for war,

and my fingers for battle.

THE OLD VETERAN