The Gift Of My Father

Camp Shelby Mississippi 

Is where it all began,

the transformation to a soldier 

from an unassuming man.

Soon thrust into a battle 

to preserve our way of life;

enduring cold, fear, hunger, 

and distance from his wife.

He stood tall when called upon, 

and always did his best,

and never once you heard him brag 

about the medals on his chest.

Honor, comittment, loyalty, 

and the courage to stand tall.

I reflect upon my Father 

and the gift he gave us all.

.