It seemed like he grew to adulthood so fast.
My tow-headed boy, childhood doesn't last.
Strong-willed, hard-headed, gentle and kind
The boy became a man that stays on my mind.

He left his home and family, this man barely grown
To become a Warrior strong, ideals he has sown.
To protect this land, his country and each one of us.
In this young man I love, we put all of our trust.

When I came upon him again, my son had progressed
So far beyond the skills I imagined he possessed.
With his arm around me, I felt all of his pride.
No longer mine, childhood things all put aside.


With his brothers in arms, now he must bear,
That mantle of pride that will never show wear.
Though they battle fiercely for our freedom and hope.
They never lose sight of the aim in their scope.

Our U.S. Marines standing in harm's way
They protect those they love and there they will stay
Till the ideals that guide each young man and each woman
Become real in our lives, our Heros returning.

~written by Fireflii~