Neil B. Downey
1Lt Timothy J. Connors
Daniel and Tom
Pride Is On The Inside
(feel free to substitute female pronouns when appropriate)
would i recognize
a veteran
if i saw him
even if
he were in ordinary clothes
would i recognize
his sacrifice and service
no, these are not the things
that are exposed
each person who has served,
to guard our freedom
who served because
he thought that it was right
no matter where you served,
i humbly thank you
because i sleep securely
through the night
to those
who're left with nightmares,
rage,
and flashbacks
or question some things
they were called to do
do you know
my heart breaks daily
for your struggles
and i 'll do anything,
to help you make it through
do you recognize
my pride,
when you pass by me
can you see
the depth of gratitude
i feel
do you know
my loved ones served
and still are serving
no, these are things
not outwardly revealed
