Poems (Kennedy)/To Our Soldiers
TO OUR SOLDIERS
(We who are to be left behind, salute you)
WE may not pause to take your hand When passing in a crowd,We may not whisper words of cheer Or speak our thoughts aloud.
For no salute is given us, No formal martial signThat signals to the heart of you Along some unseen line.
But think not that our silence means A dearth of tender care;We meet you face to face, O lads, And pass you with a prayer—
A prayer that leaves our souls aglow With pride that such things be—That men like you will pledge their lives For peace and liberty.
We greet you "heroes," every one, For you there is no "fail";You saw the torch that Freedom lit And followed in its trail;
If so you fight on land or sea Or strive where eagles call,We pass you, praying silently: GOD BLESS YOU, ONE AND ALL!